Ron Walcott

Dr. Ron Walcott serves as the Vice Provost for Graduate Education and Dean of the Graduate School at the University of Georgia, where he collaborates with schools and colleges to enhance graduate student recruitment, support, and success. He holds a concurrent appointment as Professor of Plant Pathology in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

Dr. Walcott earned his Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from the University of Georgia and both bachelor's and master's degrees in Plant Pathology from Iowa State University.

His research focuses on pathogens affecting commercially important vegetables, securing over $5 million in external funding from the USDA and industry partners. He has co-authored two books, nearly 70 peer-reviewed articles, and numerous book chapters, with research presentations delivered in nine countries across four continents.

Dr. Walcott has received several honors:

• CAES D.W. Brooks Diversity Award for Faculty
• UGA Senior Teaching Fellow
• Teaching Academy Member

He has mentored over 40 master's and Ph.D. students and secured nearly $1 million in grants to support underrepresented students through career awareness programs. Additionally, he mentors undergraduate and high school students via the CAES Young Scholars Internship Program.

Dr. Walcott is the vice president of the American Phytopathological Society and serves on multiple university committees including the Provost’s Task Force on Academic Excellence, the Student Affairs Academic Advisory Board, the Aspire Alliance IChange team, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools reaffirmation compliance team.