On May 21, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) announced the appointment of Mary Ann Hooks as Director of Animal Sciences Fundraising Initiatives, effective June 15, 2026.

This new role will lead fundraising and stakeholder engagement to strengthen external partnerships advancing UF/IFAS Animal Sciences.

Her experience in advancing institutional visibility, developing appropriations strategies and strengthening relationships across industry, state and federal stakeholders positions her to lead and accelerate fundraising initiatives that will drive the long-term growth and impact of UF/IFAS Animal Sciences.

“Mary Ann Hooks brings a strong record of engagement, stakeholder relations, and institutional advocacy that will be instrumental as we expand our impact across Animal Sciences,” said Scott Angle, UF/IFAS senior vice president of agriculture and natural resources. “She brings a strong understanding of our stakeholders and a commitment to advancing our land-grant mission.”

She also brings deep knowledge of supporting initiatives that bridge education, policy and industry needs across UF/IFAS.

Hooks previously served as Director of UF/IFAS Government Affairs where she secured funding for science-based initiatives, supporting agricultural research, education and Extension priorities. This strongly positions her to lead the development and expansion of fundraising efforts and long-term growth strategies for UF/IFAS Animal Sciences.

“My family is in the cattle business, so this opportunity is personal to me. I grew up around the industry and have strong ties and a great deal of respect for the people and their work,” said Hooks.

Her responsibilities will include leading fundraising efforts and delivering lectures and content focused on governmental affairs, advocacy and leadership development through initiatives such as LEAD IFAS orientations and related programming.

A key near-term focus will be advancing plans for a modernized Meat Science Lab with the applied meat science research program within Animal Sciences, which is dedicated to producing highly trained graduate students prepared to lead in academia and industry.

“I’m excited to help build a Meat Science Lab that will serve as a valuable resource for the livestock industry while training the next generation workforce that will support its future,” said Hooks.

The upgraded facility will be designed to address critical infrastructure, and equipment needs, strengthen food safety compliance, expand workforce development opportunities, and serve as a regional hub for applied agricultural research supporting Florida’s livestock industry. This will better support hands-on student training, applied research and industry collaboration across the UF/IFAS Animal Sciences programs.