UIdaho Dept. of Agricultural Education, Leadership and Communications

This week's "Throwback Thursday" features throwbacks of our graduating seniors from the AELC department. These well-deserving students will be celebrated on May 16 at 2 p.m. in the Kibbie Dome. Check out what these soon-to-be graduates are off to next!

Madi Rudner, B.S. Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Kaycie Theurer, B.S. Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Ben Graham, B.S. Agricultural Science, Communication, and Leadership ➡ New Zealand agriculture industry
Caylie Browne, B.S. Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Ellie Tesnohlidek, M.S. Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Rylie Zollman, B.S. Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Ainsley Goughnour, B.S. Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Mia Apps, B.S Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Vivian Dugan, B.S. Agricultural Education ➡ Agricultural Educator
Rachel Becker, B.S. Agricultural Science, Communication, and Leadership ➡ Hub International Crop Account Manager

We wish all of our graduates luck in their future endeavors!

From Buckley, Washington, Bella Stouffer is a junior double major in agricultural science, communication and leadership as well as animal and veterinary science business option and has been involved with the University of Idaho's Dairy Club since her freshman year. One of her favorite memories as a Vandal was being able to collect a swarm of bees in her AVS 110 lab.

She chose U of I because of the small campus, close knit community and the dedication to supporting each individual student and their goals. As she progresses through her degree path Bella has continued to explore various career options and looks forward to finding her place within the agriculture community.

Bella spends much of her summers travel to various county fairs within Washington, Oregon and Idaho judging 4-H small animal and livestock shows and finds as many ways as she can to give back to 4-H. After graduating in May of 2027 she is hoping to spend a few years working with 4-H extension.

We are excited for the announcement of the 2027 AGED Teacher candidates cooperating center locations!

Take a look at this throwback to when the University of Idaho hosted a sheep judging event in front of the university barn! 🐑

Hailing from Orofino, Idaho, Ava Goetz is an agricultural science, communication & leadership major with a minor in forestry. She is passionate about supporting rural communities and educating others about agriculture and natural resources. She is involved in the Society of American Foresters club at the University of Idaho.

Goetz has maintained a 4.0 GPA during her first year of college. She also completed an undergraduate research project she will present in May. She credits her advisor, Randy Brooks for his support as she explores her career path and works towards her future goals.

Students participating in poultry judging at the University farm in 1922.

For Rachel Becker, the past three years at the University of Idaho have been defined by a deep commitment to the agricultural community and her sisterhood in Sigma Alpha. Becker recalls her favorite memory as participating in the homecoming parade during her freshman year, noting that the excitement of the event was the perfect way to kick off her college experience. She credits much of her success to the Department of Agricultural Education, Leadership and Communications. She also would like to thank mentors like Dr. Frost, Dr. Brogan and Dr. Smith, as well as sorority advisor Hannah Doumit, for their constant guidance and support.

One of Becker’s most significant accomplishments has been balancing the demands of working throughout college while remaining heavily involved in campus life. She notes that maintaining this balance was a rewarding challenge that helped her grow and stay motivated. Her dedication to her studies and extracurriculars has allowed her to make the most of her time in Moscow.

Following graduation, Becker will turn her passion for agriculture into a career as she joins HUB International as a crop account manager. She looks forward to continuing her work in the field and sharing her industry knowledge with others.