Joseph Donaldson

Joseph Donaldson is an Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Programs in the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education at North Carolina State University. He leads the Extension Education major/minor programs, advising Agricultural Science undergraduates and collaborating with statewide Extension initiatives. His roles include curriculum development, program evaluation, and professional development for Extension agents. Donaldson has held leadership positions in national organizations like the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents and the American Evaluation Association.

Education: BS in Agricultural and Extension Education (University of Tennessee), MS in Agricultural and Extension Education (Pennsylvania State University), PhD in Educational Psychology and Research (University of Tennessee).

Research focuses on Extension program evaluation, career pathways in agriculture, and adult learning strategies. His work emphasizes bridging educational theory with practical agricultural applications, particularly in youth development (4-H programs) and community engagement. Recent studies explore agricultural career perceptions among community college students and capacity-building for Bangladeshi farmers.

Publications (2010-2024) highlight program evaluation methodologies, Extension professional competencies, and STEM education outreach. Key themes include improving Extension education quality, aligning curricula with workforce needs, and leveraging technology for youth engagement.

• 2024 NC State Outstanding Teacher Award
• 2023 AAAE Distinguished Extension Educator
• 2015 National Extension Professional of the Year

Advising and grants: Coordinates NC State’s Extension Summer Internship Program and Career PACCS initiative for community college students. Collaborates with Tennessee Extension on performance appraisal systems and volunteer training frameworks.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Undergraduate Programs unit, collaborating with agricultural education faculty to enhance program rigor and relevance. Active in cross-institutional initiatives like Explore BiGG Data’s STEM mentoring network.