Andre Receives National Friend of Extension Award

WAUSEON, Ohio — The Ohio State University Extension in Fulton County is proud to announce that
Nathan “Nate” Andre of Fulton County, Ohio, has been selected as a 2025 recipient of the National Friend of Extension Award. This prestigious honor awarded by Epsilon Sigma Phi, The Extension Professionals' Organization, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing the mission of Extension nationwide.

Andre was formally recognized at the Epsilon Sigma Phi National Conference in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 8, 2025.

A lifelong farmer, advocate, and steward, Andre co-owns and operates Andre Farms & Landforming alongside his brother Paul. Since taking over their family’s grain operation in 1982, Andre has not only grown the business but also pioneered numerous initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture and elevate Extension’s work across Ohio. His efforts include supporting extensive on-farm research, developing one of Ohio’s largest Class II EPA food waste composting facilities, and mentoring future agriculturalists through 4-H, FFA, and county Extension programs.

“Nate is a passionate advocate for the role of Extension in shaping the future of agriculture and ensuring farmers have access to vital resources to help feed the world,” said David Civittolo, Interim Associate Dean and Director of OSU Extension. “His dedication to advancing Extension’s mission and fostering learning across the lifespan through Land Grant programming in Ohio and beyond is truly commendable.”

Andre has served on Ohio State’s Council for Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching (CARET) for 28 years, promoting the work of land-grant universities to policymakers at the state and federal level. He has welcomed faculty, graduate students, elected officials, and hundreds of community members to his farm for tours and field days, using his platform to foster dialogue and support for Extension’s work.In addition to his research and advocacy efforts, Andre helped lead three large-scale "Breakfast on the Farm" events in Fulton County, reaching over 9,000 people with hands-on education about agriculture. He is also the founder of the Trish Andre Advisors Memorial Scholarship, which annually awards four $500 scholarships to 4-H youth in memory of his late wife.

For his continued commitment to Extension, agricultural education, and sustainable farming practices, Andre has unquestionably earned this nomination. His leadership, advocacy, and collaboration with Ohio State University Extension serve as a model for others in the agricultural community.