Steven C. Bonanno, a long-time employee within West Virginia University’s Extension Service, has been named to head the organization while a search is conducted for a permanent leader.

Bonanno, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agriculture education from WVU, has been director of the WVU Extension Service’s Community, Economic and Workforce Development unit since 2005. He previously served as Pleasants County WVU Extension agent from 1982 to 2005 with responsibilities in agriculture, community development and 4-H. He also spent 18 years as director and deputy director of Pleasants County Emergency Services.

“We are pleased that Steve is willing to accept this interim appointment,” Provost Michele Wheatly said Wednesday. “His extensive experience with Extension makes him a perfect choice for the continuity of programming which is so important to our state. With the upcoming 150th anniversary of the federal act that established land-grant institutions, we are especially reminded how important Extension is to the quality of life in West Virginia.”

Bonanno, 51, assumes the Cooperative Extension duties July 1, upon the retirement of Dave Miller, who had served as associate provost for extension and public service since 2007.

“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve during this transition in Extension leadership,” Bonanno said. “I am very passionate about Extension’s mission of improving the lives of the citizens in the state, and I appreciate West Virginia University’s commitment to the Extension Service.”

-WVU-

jb/06/29/11

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