My background in education spans over four decades, mostly teaching English language. I started out teaching in Amman, Jordan, in 1977, taught later at a university in Saudi Arabia, and at Grand View College, in Des Moines, Iowa. In 1999, I completed my Ph.D. at Iowa State University.
I ended up at Minnesota State University, Mankato, as a professor of English (technical communication). When I retired from there, I wanted to become more active in rural organizations, particularly concerning sustainable agriculture and keeping the rural Midwest a good place to live. To do my part, I implemented conservation practices on my own farm in Iowa and installed solar arrays to provide electricity for my farm.
The Center's programs align with my own values and practices, so once I had the time and opportunity, I wanted to get involved. Getting acquainted with other board/committee members has been a joy; they’re an interesting bunch of folks. Having a small say in the policies of the Center is rewarding as well.
Lee is a member of the Center for Rural Affairs Advisory Committee. He was named to the Advisory Committee in March 2021.
