Mar 6, 2024

UGA Extension agent new Vidalia director

Shane Curry, a University of Georgia Extension county agent, has become executive director of the Vidalia Onion Committee (VOC).

Curry was Appling County Extension agriculture agent in Baxley, Georgia, and also worked in Montgomery County. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his work with various produce commodities, including onions, strawberries, blueberries and pecans. Curry began his position Jan. 2.

In 17 years with University of Georgia (UGA) Cooperative Extension, Curry demonstrated an unwavering commitment to research and extension programs, according to a news release.

He received the Distinguished Service Award from the Georgia and National Association of County Agriculture Agents. He also has authored or co-authored numerous research publications and newspaper articles, produced weekly radio programs and maintained a blog.

In 2018, Curry was named a Fruit Growers News 40 Under 40 honoree. He started and coordinated the Southeast Georgia Pecan Field Day which is attended by more than 200 growers each year. He is considered an area expert in pecan production and has received the Georgia Pecan Achievement Award.

A 2000 graduate of Vidalia High School, Curry earned an associate of science degree from Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, a bachelor of agribusiness degree from Middle Tennessee State University and a master’s of agriculture and environmental education from UGA.

“Mr. Curry’s extensive background in agriculture and natural resources makes him highly qualified to lead the committee into the future,” according to the release. “His leadership and strategic vision will be instrumental in advancing the committee’s mission and promoting the Vidalia onion brand.”