Dr. Orlando F. McMeans is a leader in agricultural research and education, currently holding the position of Chancellor of the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center and Dean of the College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences in Baton Rouge, LA. Assuming his role on September 1, 2019, Dr. McMeans has overseen remarkable growth and progress within both the Ag Center and the College, even amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Under Dr. McMeans' guidance, the Southern University Ag Center has achieved unprecedented success, securing increased funding through strategic presentations to legislative bodies, resulting in significant advancements and improvements within the institution. Notably, this includes addressing deferred maintenance projects and facilitating partnerships with esteemed organizations like the United States Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) to establish a pioneering ARS lab on campus, marking a historic milestone for 1890 Land-Grant Institutions.

Furthermore, the College of Agricultural, Human and Environmental Sciences has experienced notable increases in enrollment and retention, attributed to various initiatives, such as enhanced financial support for scholarships, the establishment of the Office of Student Success, bolstered recruitment and retention efforts, and extensive outreach programs targeting K-12 students across Louisiana.

Prior to his current roles, Dr. McMeans held diverse leadership positions at West Virginia State College (WVSU), where he made significant contributions to research, public service, and outreach. His tenure at WVSU saw the implementation of impactful programs and the renovation of essential campus facilities, showcasing his commitment to advancing agricultural education and research.

Dr. McMeans is actively involved in numerous national, regional, and local organizations, holding leadership positions and memberships that reflect his commitment to agricultural advancement. Notably, he served on the Board of Directors of the Association of Public Land-GrantUniversities (APLU) and chaired the APLU’s Board on Agriculture Assembly (BAA) Policy Board of Directors. He is also engaged in various committees and steering roles within organizations such as the Association of Research Directors (ARD) and the Experiment Station Committee on Organization and Policy.

His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science from Alabama A&M University, followed by a Master of Science, and a Ph.D. in Horticulture from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Dr. McMeans further pursued postdoctoral studies in genetic engineering at Virginia Tech.

Originally hailing from Theodore, Alabama, Dr. McMeans attributes his success to his upbringing and family support, being the proud son of RosieM. McMeans Nettles and sibling to Charles, LaTrenia, and Tanjanika.

Dr. Orlando F. McMeans is committed to excellence in agricultural research, education, and service, making significant contributions to the advancement of the field throughout his distinguished career.