After 27 years of teaching at Michigan State University, an ISU alumnus has returned to his alma mater as the new chair of the animal science department.

Maynard Hogberg took over the position in August, replacing Susan Lamont, professor of animal science.

He has been the chair of the animal science department at Michigan State for the past 18 years.

Wendy Wintersteen, senior associate dean for ISU Extension, said his background will help him with the position at Iowa State.

“Because he has such an understanding of the animal science department, he will do a great job,” she said.

The former animal science department chair, Lamont, had agreed to a two-year appointment, which expired this year.

“Lamont did a great job, and Hogberg will build on to Lamont’s review of programs, explaining the strengths and weaknesses of the department,” Wintersteen said.

“He excels in communication and recognizes the importance of working with Iowans.”

As a child, Hogberg grew up on a farm near Stanton, Iowa, where his family raised hogs and cattle. He said his interest in the livestock industry came from his time on the farm.

Hogberg received an undergraduate degree in agriculture education from Iowa State.

He then taught high school in Ida Grove, Iowa, for four years before returning to Iowa State to earn his master’s degree and doctorate in animal science.

“[I developed a] strong interest in livestock and people and went into teaching,” he said.

Hogberg said he wanted to return to Iowa State because he is impressed with the administration and the strong livestock industry.

Hogberg said he is “excited to be here” and feels he owes something back to the institution that has done so much for him.

Rich Degner, executive director of the Iowa Pork Producers Association, was a member of the search committee for the new chair.

He said Hogberg brings leadership and experience to the position that comes from his Iowa roots.

“He is bringing a background to Iowa State that is top notch, and a passion for agriculture,” Degner said.

Hogberg has a personality students can relate to, Degner said.

“[Students] will find him extremely pleasant and friendly,” he said.

Hogberg said the disadvantage of being chair of the department is isolation from students.

“From a student standpoint, the most important goal is to maintain an open dialogue with students,” Hogberg said.

“[The chair] is where the ideas come from, where the enthusiasm comes from and the reason we’re here is to work on the learning process.”

Hogberg said his new position will mean new experiences all the time.

“Everyday is different; that’s the fun part,” he said. “It’s not monotonous.”