Dan Shike Appointed Head of Animal Sciences at University of Illinois

Black Hawk College alumnus and nationally recognized researcher was named department head at the University of Illinois.

Dan Shike, who graduated from Black Hawk College East Campus and is a nationally recognized expert in beef cattle production systems, has been named head of the Department of Animal Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He started the role in June 2026, after serving as interim head since June 2024.

Dan’s research focuses on improving the efficiency, reproductive performance, and profitability of beef cattle production systems. His work examines the entire production cycle, helping producers improve profitability while supporting a safe and affordable food supply.

Throughout his career, he has secured more than $12 million in research funding, authored more than 85 peer-reviewed publications, and mentored dozens of graduate and undergraduate students. Shike is also recognized for hosting outreach programs for producers and industry stakeholders across Illinois and beyond, amplifying his impact on the broader agricultural community.

Shike’s expertise and leadership have been recognized through numerous honors, including the University of Illinois Provost’s Distinguished Promotion Award, the Karl E. Gardner Outstanding Undergraduate Adviser Award, and the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture Educator Award. He has also been named to the University of Illinois' "List of Teachers Ranked Excellent" more than 25 times.

Dan, who grew up in Illinois, earned his associate degree from Black Hawk College East Campus, then completed advanced degrees in animal sciences before joining the University of Illinois faculty in 2011.

“It is an honor to serve as head of a department with such a rich history and far-reaching impact,” Shike said. “I look forward to working alongside our faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends to build on that foundation and advance the department’s impact in Illinois and around the world.”

Shike’s appointment is a testament to the strong educational grounding provided by Black Hawk College East Campus. Alumni continue to build successful careers and become leaders in their fields, demonstrating the college’s ongoing commitment to student achievement and leadership development.