Dr. Mark Russell
info@theagrosol.com
Dr. Mark Russell is an Emeritus Professor of Extension Engagement and Leadership at Purdue University, with an academic foundation rooted in Animal Sciences. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University and completed both his Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees at the University of Illinois, all in Animal Sciences.
Early in his career, Dr. Russell served as a Horse Extension Specialist at both the University of Illinois and Purdue University. Over time, his academic portfolio expanded significantly, culminating in the instruction of 18 distinct animal sciences courses. Through deliberate curriculum expansion and redesign, he positioned students to move beyond technical proficiency toward applied problem-solving—emphasizing team collaboration, leadership capacity, and effective community engagement.
Across more than 40 years in higher education, Dr. Russell has become particularly known for his leadership in extension methods, service learning, and career-readiness development. His teaching philosophy centers on experiential learning, where students apply disciplinary knowledge in authentic settings. This approach has been especially evident in his service-learning and travel courses, which have enabled students to develop informal educational engagement strategies while working in diverse international contexts.
Dr. Russell has led and supported student learning experiences in numerous global settings, including Ecuador, Cambodia, Haiti, Peru, Portugal, and Romania. These experiences are intentionally designed to challenge students to develop a broader worldview, deepen cultural awareness, and operate effectively beyond their personal and professional comfort zones.
Currently, Dr. Russell remains actively engaged in international projects focused on agricultural curriculum design, assessment of learning outcomes, university–community engagement, and service-learning models. His continued work reflects a sustained commitment to building globally competent graduates and strengthening the societal impact of universities through extension and engagement.