Richard Ross, the multitasking former dean of agriculture, and ISU women’s basketball head coach Bill Fennelly have something in common – at least that’s what their colleagues say.

“They both inspire the team,” said Wendy Wintersteen, senior associate dean of extension for the agriculture college, at a reception honoring Ross last Friday.

The reception, held at the Jacobson Athletic Building, featured several guest speakers, gift presentations and the unveiling of Ross’ official portrait.

Ross was named dean of the College of Agriculture in July 2000 after serving several months as interim dean. Previously, he was dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, and from February 2000 to June 2000, he served as dean of both colleges.

“It takes a remarkable person to be the dean of two colleges,” said Provost Rollin Richmond.

Ross will return to the faculty of the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Preventive Medicine.

He will continue his research in swine respiratory diseases, help with teaching and participate in some international collaborative opportunities.

Fennelly presented an autographed basketball to Ross, an avid basketball fan.

“Someone told me that being dean of two colleges at a time is like coaching the men’s and women’s basketball teams,” Fennelly said.

Ross, who has returned to teaching, said there was “some collaboration between colleges,” and that both had good faculty.

“I don’t know how I did it,” said Ross, distinguished professor of agriculture. “I got the essential things dealt with.”

One difference between the colleges, Ross said, is that veterinary medicine is more focused on health issues, while agriculture offers a “broader portfolio of strengths.”

“The thing that really was so enchanting about it was to have all the disciplines and the departments to address the complex issues that occur from agriculture and rural life in America,” he said.

Ross said he enjoyed “the opportunity to interact in the state with friends and stakeholders in rural communities to find out what’s on their minds.”

It was incredibly important to keep finding ways to use natural resources, preserve quality and add value to agriculture, he said.

Ross showed a “deep concern for rural Iowa,” Wintersteen said.

ISU President Gregory Geoffroy said Ross had a “willingness to work hard for the College of Agriculture” and “positioned the college well for his successor.”

“Dean Ross has few peers in his quest for excellence,” said Jerry Miller, associate dean of extension programs and outreach for the College of Agriculture.

Ross stepped to the podium and began his speech by jokingly reminding his colleagues that he hadn’t even wanted a program at his reception.

Ross thanked the president, provost, faculty and students for their support during his time as dean and said he was “literally blown away” by opportunities presented in the College of Agriculture.

“That’s what we’re here to celebrate today,” Ross said.

Ross said Iowa State has been very good to him and he has had a lot of help from the administration during his career.