The end of 2011 marked a leadership change for UC Cooperative Extension. After 16 years as county director, Dr. Rachel Surls has transitioned back into the field to focus on her programs and research in sustainable food systems.
In January, Dr. Keith Nathaniel was appointed to fill the director position. He has been with UC Cooperative Extension since 1994. He began as program coordinator and later moved on to becoming the 4-H youth development advisor for LA County. Along with his many years of leadership experience and organizational knowledge, his academic expertise is in after-school programs, adolescent development and youth science literacy. We couldn't be in better hands!
"As county director, I am excited to lead this organization and build on the momentum and achievements made by our staff and programs under Dr. Surls' leadership," said Nathaniel. "We will continue to help LA County residents live well and thrive, particularly during these challenging economic times," he added.
Nathaniel received his doctorate in educational leadership from UCLA, a master's degree in education from Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University and a bachelor's degree from UC Davis.
To contact Dr. Nathaniel, please contact him at (323) 260-3845, kcnathaniel@ucdavis.edu.