"Sam Fowler is just the type of leader we need as ACES embarks on its drive to become the world-class organization that Alabamians turn to for real-life answers and solutions that improve their lives," said Smith.

"It is imperative that we have a strong and capable leader in the role of associate director for Rural and Traditional Programs," Smith added. "Because of his 28 years of Extension experience, Sam brings a clear understanding of how important it is that ACES be responsive to a very large and dynamic group of clients, and also to our funders."

Fowler, who holds a doctorate in agricultural economics from Mississippi State University, had been working in program evaluation and accountability and serving as the organization's governmental affairs liaison.

As the associate director for Rural and Traditional Programs, Fowler will oversee programs in Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources, Family and Individual Well-Being, Community and Economic Development and 4-H.

Fowler predicts that the coming years will be a time of dynamic change for the ACES organization as it shifts to meet the demands of Alabamians whose economic and personal needs have been altered by a quickly changing world.

"The most important thing is my commitment and ability to implement the shared vision of the entire ACES staff, and most especially the vision of the director," said Fowler.

"It is a major goal to ensure that our specialists and county agents have the necessary tools to help the people served by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System adapt quickly in these changing times," said Fowler.

"My highest priority goal is to help guide the organization through this period of great change and to make sure that we have a team of leaders in place that can make sure ACES continues to be a great organization for the next decade and well beyond," said Fowler. "I look forward to this challenge."

Fowler's roots in Extension run deep. His father was a county agent in Mississippi. His own Extension career began as a 4-H youth agent in Fayette County in 1972. After spending four years as a 4-H agent and another three as an agricultural agent, Fowler resigned from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service (now System) to return to Mississippi State University to complete his doctorate.

He had previously received a bachelor's degree in Agronomy and master's degree in Extension Education, also from Mississippi State.

In 1982, Fowler returned to Extension in Alabama as a specialist on the Community Resource Development staff. In the 20 years since, he has served in numerous other capacities.

Fowler is a 1999 graduate of the National Extension Leadership Development program. He will continue to represent ACES as the primary governmental relations person with the Alabama Legislature and Alabama’s U.S. representatives and senators.

Fowler is retired from the National Guard as a lieutenant colonel with more than 30 years of service.

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