Statement of CALS Dean Molly Jahn on the death of Rod Nilsestuen

Here is a statement from Molly Jahn, dean of the University of Wisconsin–Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, regarding the death of state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Affairs Secretary Rod Nilsestuen:

“We were deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of Rod Nilsestuen, our outstanding secretary of agriculture, trade and consumer protection. Rod was both a visionary leader and a friend whose humor, generosity and spirit will be profoundly missed. On behalf of the thousands of University of Wisconsin–Madison faculty, staff, students and alumni who benefited from Rod’s leadership and friendship, I join our university leadership in extending our condolences to Rod’s family and friends and share in mourning a great loss for Wisconsin.

“I met Rod within days of my arrival in Wisconsin, and I relied often on his experience and guidance. He was an unfailing partner for the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and UW-Extension, and more broadly a tremendous steward of Wisconsin’s agricultural industries. Rod’s dedication to creating a vibrant, robust agricultural economy for Wisconsin was absolute, and he never wavered from his promise to serve Wisconsin’s citizens and communities. His passionate commitment to protecting and enhancing our working lands has made a historic impact on the state that will leave a towering legacy of his influence.”