Dr. J. “Clay” Hurdle obtained a Ph.D. in Agricultural Education and Communication (Leadership Development) from the University of Florida in 2023. He also holds certifications in Leadership in Agriculture and Natural Resources as well as Teaching and Learning in Agricultural and Life Sciences. Dr. Hurdle’s scholastic interests include leadership pedagogy, intercollegiate athletic leadership, global leadership, team leadership/group development, youth leadership development, Extension administration and governance, and intercultural communication in the context of serving Extension clientele.

From a programmatic standpoint, Dr. Hurdle is interested in developing opportunities for 4-H youth and Extension volunteers to enhance their capacity for leadership both within their 4-H experiences as well as within their communities. Additionally, he seeks to develop civic engagement curriculum predicated on positive youth development principles and experiential learning.

Affiliations

• Association of Leadership Educators (ALE)
• International Leadership Association (ILA)
• North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA)
• National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals (NAE4-HYDP)

Areas of Expertise

• Leadership theories for personal and group development
• Civic engagement through service-based activities and experiential learning
• U.S. land-grant university system history and emerging topics
• Qualitative research methods and needs assessment techniques
• Research at HDFS