Award Recipient
Award for Excellence in Faculty Outreach
This award honors the engagement of exemplary faculty members and demonstrates the tremendous impact Outreach has on the community, state, nation and beyond.
This annual award, and a $5,000 honorarium, is presented to one Auburn faculty member for distinguished outreach contributions that exemplify the qualities of reciprocal and beneficial community engagement, and exceed expectations for the person’s career stage and job responsibilities.
Auburn University recognized Leanne Dillard, associate professor and Alabama Cooperative Extension System forage specialist, with the Award for Excellence in Faculty Outreach for her outstanding contributions to agricultural sustainability and producer education.
Dillard’s outreach and research programs focus on forage agronomy, helping farmers optimize integrated crop-livestock systems and adopt practices that improve nutrient cycling, reduce soil compaction, and enhance pest management. Her work on bio-stimulants and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria aims to reduce reliance on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers—lowering costs and minimizing environmental impact while maintaining productivity.
Through statewide workshops, on-site farm demonstrations, and applied research, Dillard provides practical solutions that strengthen Alabama’s agricultural economy and promote environmental stewardship. Her efforts support Auburn’s land-grant mission by combining teaching, research, and outreach to address real-world challenges.
This recognition highlights Dillard’s leadership in advancing sustainable agriculture and her commitment to improving the livelihoods of Alabama producers through science-based innovation and engagement.
