Andy Miller, Washington County Extension Director, recently received the 2024 Southeast Iowa Pride of Extension Award. The purpose of this award is to recognize county staff that have excelled in providing program, marketing, and/or fiscal support and leadership. Miller is in his third year as a County Director. He is dedicated to serving all of Washington County: finding new ways to introduce youth to volunteer roles and community service projects, monitoring financial budgets, and supporting staff through crucial conversations and situations as they arise.  

He is an active fireman and first responder, which has brought many great opportunities to the Extension world as well. Miller works closely with the youth staff and helps educate youth in first aid basics and CPR in the camp offerings – “On Your Own and OK,” and “Babysitting Basics,” not just in Washington County, but throughout Region 19. He also educates youth in fire prevention and fire safety during the annual Safety Day Field Trip for 2nd graders in Washington County.  

Most recently, Miller partnered with Volunteer Iowa to create a Youth Service Board with students from Mid-Prairie and Washington High Schools to foster intergenerational connections and promote volunteerism among youth with local resident homes in Washington County. There were approximately 113 students who participated in this initiative, with 75% expressing interest to volunteer in this group again, and 80% finding this experience very rewarding.