County directors play a critical role in the success of local extension programming, and in Washington County, Andy Miller is the go-to person.
Miller was named director in 2021 and was awarded the County Professional Excellence in ANR Programing award at this year’s professional development conference for Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources – held Sept. 16-17 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames. 
“Andy brings outside experience and connections to his position, and is very well respected by all of our staff and our extension council,” said Holly Beinhart, office assistant for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Washington County.
Over the past three years, Miller has helped coordinate the county’s Master Gardener and Master Conservation programs, while also working closely with area field agronomist Rebecca Vittetoe, on additional outreach such as the newly launched “Field Talk” meetings with area farmers and the local ag industry.
According to Vittetoe, the “Field Talk” meetings are held in cooperation with Keokuk County, in an effort to host small-group discussions centered around current crop issues, as well as grain marketing.
“We’re very fortunate to have Andy here in Washington County,” said Vittetoe. “He has a lot of great connections and he’s not afraid to roll up his sleeves to help get things done.”
Miller also helps with field days and events at the Southeast Research and Demonstration Farm, and he is also part of an effort with the University of Iowa to improve roadway safety for farmers and non-farm motorists.
Miller is part of the “Roadway Safety Community Advisory Board,” which includes local farmers, local law enforcement, and others who are working together to improve roadway safety in Washington County and beyond.
Miller also helped organize a Youth Service Board, where five local youth planned a volunteer event. This event led to partnerships with Washington School District, Mid-Prairie School District, Pleasantview House, Halcyon House, and UP Home with Iowa State Extension Washington County. These five youths took 125 students to these partners and volunteered. This experience was great for the students, teachers, faculty, and residents at the homes.
Outside of his extension work, Miller helps operate the family’s Christmas tree farm, is a Washington County firefighter and EMS volunteer, and can be found volunteering as a coach for one of his daughters’ volleyball teams. He is married to Cheyenne and is the father to three daughters: Carys, Isla, and Wren.