AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. — Following a national search, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Auburn University has selected Casey Mull as assistant director for 4-H Youth Development. Mull will guide Alabama’s largest youth development organization into an exciting new era of innovation and impact.

He will begin his position Jan. 5, 2026.

Mull brings extensive experience in youth development, most recently as assistant director of Extension and state 4-H program leader at Purdue University. Under his leadership, Indiana 4-H grew to serve more than 191,000 youth, expanded statewide initiatives and secured more than $10 million in external funding to enhance programming.

“Dr. Mull’s proven leadership and vision will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our commitment to youths across all of our 67 counties,” said Mike Phillips, director of Alabama Extension. “We are confident that his appointment will mark the beginning of a bold and transformative chapter for Alabama 4-H.”

Mull has championed initiatives that amplify youth voice, foster civic engagement and create welcoming environments for all audiences. A 4-H alumnus, Mull’s career spans roles as a military-connected youth development specialist and state program leader. He has shaped the direction of 4-H nationally through service on the Beyond Ready Leadership Team, the Extension Committee on Policy and Organization 4-H Leadership Committee and as president of both the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals and the Joint Council of Extension Professionals. These roles have provided a platform to influence national policy, mentor Extension professionals and champion innovative programming.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of the Alabama Extension team and advance the legacy and future to equip the 650,000 4-H-age youths for employment, education or enlistment,” Mull said. “The opportunities are endless when higher education institutions like Alabama A&M and Auburn partner with our local communities. Alabama 4-H’ers are the youngest students in our higher education institutions, and, through 4-H, we will enable them to be healthy, productive and engaged—ready to solve the challenges facing our community, country and world.”

In addition to his role as assistant director, Mull will have a joint appointment as clinical professor in the Auburn University College of Education.