Andrea Welchans

Andrea Welchans began her career with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach at the Polk County office in January 2001. She served in many county roles, including 4-H county youth coordinator, office manager and county director. In 2017 she was named regional director for Polk, Dallas, Madison and Warren counties, and later served as interim state 4-H program leader.

Presently she is the assistant vice president for county services, leading 100 county extension offices and 450 county staff and engaging with 900 elected council members throughout the state. With a strong interest in building teams, and experience with writing grants and managing budgets, she uses her knowledge of county office operations while serving on the ISU Extension and Outreach leadership team.

Since 2021, Andrea has represented Iowa State University on the Iowa State Fair Board and the Blue Ribbon Foundation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in geology and geophysics from the University of Hawaii at Mānoa and a master’s in public administration from Drake University. She remains active in 4-H as a parent and volunteer. She is actively involved in her home community and schools and serves as board secretary for the Bondurant Christian Church Preschool. She is married and has two sons.