Lommel Named Interim Head of Horticultural Science

Steve Lommel, a long-time leader with NC State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, will serve as interim head of the Department of Horticultural Science effective Jan. 2, 2026.

With 37 years of service to the university and CALS, Lommel retired at the end of October after 12 years as CALS associate dean for research and director of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service (NCARS).

“Steve’s deep institutional knowledge and long record of leadership will provide valuable continuity during this transition,” says CALS Dean Garey Fox. “His nearly 40 years with NC State University, including starting in what was the Department of Plant Pathology (a closely related field to horticulture), gives him unparalleled insight. His combination of senior administrative experience, visionary program building and roots in plant sciences makes him an ideal choice to provide stable, effective and forward-looking leadership during this transition period.”

After joining the Department of Plant Pathology in 1988, Lommel focused on teaching and research before serving as assistant director of NCARS and then assistant and associate vice chancellor for research at the university level. He returned to CALS in 2013 to head up the college’s research arm. He was also instrumental in the development of the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative and the construction of the Plant Sciences Building, which serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research and collaboration for scientists, industry partners and budding entrepreneurs.

“I look forward to supporting the Department of Horticultural Science during this transition,” Lommel says. “With momentum building in the field of plant sciences as cutting-edge technology accelerates new research, plant varieties and solutions for growers, it’s an exciting time for the department’s faculty and students.”

Frank Louws, who has served as department head since 2018, will return to the faculty at the end of the year.

“Please join me in thanking Frank for his dedicated leadership,” Fox says. “He has been a great champion for the department and has positioned it for continued success.” 

A national search is underway to identify the next permanent department head for Horticultural Science. A search committee has been formed, and additional details will be shared as they become available.

This post was originally published in College of Agriculture and Life Sciences News.