MSU Alumnus Bob Perry Appointed

By UK College of Agriculture

MSU Alumnus Bob Perry Appointed by UK College of Agriculture

Bob Perry , a 1982 graduate of Murray State University , was recently appointed as Food Systems Coordinator of a one-year pilot project at the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture.

The Food Systems Initiative is designed to act as a networking center. It will connect university know-how with government policy makers, local entrepreneurs and corporations. Perry’s duties as director include promoting development of new food enterprises in Kentucky , specifically linking to Agricultural Development Board programs that concentrate on tobacco-dependent counties. He will also advise programs involving sustainable and local food production, give class lectures and seminars and provide programs for county agents and specialists.

Perry, former director of foodservice extension for the Commonwealth of Kentucky , brings a great wealth of experience to his new position. In 1984, Perry completed post baccalaureate studies in hotel, restaurant and tourism management at the University of South Carolina , and he anticipates the completion of his master’s degree in sociology from the University of Louisville this year. He was the director of food service for the Kentucky Department of Parks from 2004 until this year, and has more than 25 years of experience in the hotel, restaurant and tourism industry.

Nancy Cox, associate dean of research for the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture says, “We are very happy to have someone with Bob’s experience and energy in this role, and we believe he will be a valuable link to Kentucky’s food entrepreneur community, as well as our partners in the Department of Agriculture and the Governor’s Office of Agricultural Policy.”