South Dakota State University Celebrating 125 Years 1991-2006 wine glasses

Gary Lemme, a native of Kiester, Minnesota, has had a distinguished career in agricultural education and extension services. He Gary Lemme, Ph.D. is a distinguished leader in agricultural education, research, and extension services with over 45 years of experience in academia and administration. A native of Kiester, Minnesota, he earned a B.S. in Agricultural Education (1974) and an M.S. in Agronomy (1975) from South Dakota State University (SDSU), followed by a Ph.D. in Agronomy from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (1979), where he focused on soil moisture and stratigraphy in loessial landscapes.

Lemme began his academic career as a faculty member at SDSU (1981–1990), where he taught and conducted research in soil science. During this time, he was recognized as the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences' Teacher of the Year in 1986. He also held faculty and administrative roles at Michigan State University, where he served as Associate Director of the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station (1999–2005), and at the University of Minnesota, where he was Head of the West Central Research and Outreach Center (1992–1999). Additionally, he served as Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs at the University of Hawaii’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources (1990–1992).

In 2005, Lemme was appointed Dean of the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences at SDSU. During his tenure, he oversaw a budget of over $74 million, expanded research funding, and supported academic growth across 14 departments. He played a key role in forming interdisciplinary research collaborations and strengthening sustainable agriculture programs. He stepped down in 2008 but remained at SDSU as a professor and coordinator of special programs.

Lemme's leadership continued as Director of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) from 2011 to 2021. He led the only joint 1862 and 1890 Land-Grant University Extension system in the U.S., overseeing more than 800 employees across Alabama A&M and Auburn University. Under his direction, ACES expanded outreach efforts, enhanced research-driven agricultural solutions, and secured funding to support rural development initiatives.

Throughout his career, Lemme has contributed significantly to agricultural research and education, publishing numerous peer-reviewed articles, and securing over $2 million in grants and contracts. He has completed international assignments in 16 countries, focusing on agricultural sustainability and education. His contributions have been recognized with multiple awards, including the USDA Group Honor Award for Excellence and the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture National Fellow Award.
Now serving as Extension Director Emeritus at Auburn University, Lemme remains committed to advancing agricultural education, research, and outreach programs that support the economic and environmental sustainability of rural communities.