August 20, 2020
Robert Gillen retiring
After 14 years of dedicated service, Robert Gillen will retire as head of the Western Kansas Agricultural Research Centers on Aug. 31. Gillen was announced as head of the centers on Feb. 9, 2006.
Before joining K-State, Gillen was on the faculty at Oklahoma State University from 1983-1996 where he progressed through the academic ranks and developed a strong research program in grazing management systems, vegetation response to grazing, grassland ecology and forage establishment. From 1996-2006, Gillen served as a rangeland scientist with USDA-ARS in Woodward, Oklahoma.
Gillen completed his undergraduate degree in range ecology from Colorado State University and earned a doctoral degree in rangeland resources from Oregon State University.
As a native of Meade, Gillen had a deep cultural appreciation for the western Kansas region he served. That knowledge together with his scientific credentials and great leadership instincts served him well as head. K-State Research and Extension benefited tremendously from Gillen's even demeanor and thoughtful decision-making processes.
The College of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension wish Gillen and his wife Pam all of the best in retirement. Cards and written memories can be sent to gillen@k-state.edu or Agricultural Research Center — Hays, 1232 240th Ave., Hays, KS 67601.