The University of Idaho has named Andy Toelle the new director of UI Extension 4-H Youth Development. The appointment brings a seasoned extension professional back to the state after more than 30 years in the field.
Toelle currently works as a regional specialized 4-H agent for the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. He said he intends to spend his early months listening to staff and learning about the existing program structure before making changes.
This is not Toelle’s first time working with the university. He previously served as a 4-H Extension educator in Bonneville County from 1992 to 1994. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Auburn University and earned his doctorate in agricultural education and communication from the University of Florida.
Toelle praised the current UI program, noting strong club offerings and creative initiatives like “Learn Everywhere with 4-H,” which allows youth to earn high school credit for certain projects. He said his goal is for staff to work together toward making the best better.
During his time in Florida, Toelle focused on faculty development. He created Day One Mentoring, a program that paired new hires with experienced faculty members throughout their first year of employment. Onboarding and training new staff were among his favorite responsibilities while holding various positions within the Florida 4-H system.
Toelle also helped expand 4-H programming internationally. In 2010, he joined a team of Florida 4-H leaders that partnered with the nonprofit Lignum Vitae to establish 4-H programs in the Bahamas. Additionally, he traveled to U.S. Air Force and Navy bases across Europe and the Caribbean to train youth development program staff.