New Director Named for Panhandle Research and Extension Center

New Director Named for Panhandle Research and Extension Center

August 8, 2008

Photo of Linda Boeckner
Linda Boeckner

Linda S. Boeckner, UNL professor of nutrition and health sciences, has been appointed district director of the Panhandle Research and Extension Center and the Panhandle Extension District in Scottsbluff.

Boeckner, who has served as interim director since the departure of Charles Hibberd last November, has been an extension nutrition specialist at the Panhandle center since 1987.

John Owens, University of Nebraska vice president and Harlan vice chancellor of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, praised Boeckner's skills.

"Dr. Boeckner was well-received by those who participated in the interview process in Scottsbluff and Lincoln and many positive comments were made about her professionalism, ability to work with others, and her skill in building strong teams," Owens wrote in an e-mail announcing the appointment to university personnel. "We think she will bring some special and highly valued qualities and perspectives to the district and we know she will work with the faculty, staff and clientele to support each of you to continue the momentum and dedication for which the PHREC faculty and staff are so well known."

Boeckner said the Panhandle center is an important part of the University's research and extension program.

"We are dedicated to serving the clientele of the area in excellent fashion, and will be continuing those strong efforts into the future," she said. "The fact that we have an excellent faculty and staff to help meet those needs is one of the perks of the job."

Boeckner received a bachelor's degree in foods and nutrition from UNL in 1975, her master's degree in nutrition from Case Western Reserve University in 1977 and her doctorate in nutrition from UNL in 1982.

The Panhandle Research and Extension Center, one of four such centers across the state, provides research and extension education to Nebraskans in 17 counties.

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UNL Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources

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