Monday, May 13, 2013 - President Steven Leath, Iowa State University
Steven Leath is Iowa State University's 15th president. He assumed leadership of the university on Jan. 16, 2012.
Trained as a plant scientist, Leath served at three universities in teaching, research and economic development posts en route to the ISU presidency.
Carolina system. Under Leath's leadership,
- external research grants and contracts to the UNC campuses steadily increased, and technology transfer activities at the
- universities were streamlined to make the universities more attractive to private
sector partners and more responsive to state needs
While serving as VP of the UNC system, Leath also helped develop the North Carolina Research Campus, Kannapolis, a private-public venture that fosters advancements in biotechnology, nutrition and health.
At North Carolina State University, Raleigh, Leath held several positions, including director of the NC Agricultural Research Service (ARS), associate dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, professor, and research leader and plant pathologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's ARS.
Leath began his academic career at the University of Illinois, Urbana, as an extension plant pathologist.
Leath has published numerous articles on plant disease resistance, plant breeding and related areas and has presented his scientific work throughout the U.S. and in numerous countries.
He and his spouse Janet Leath have two sons Eric and Scott.