Alumni Spotlight: Pat Dixon


The University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences recognizes an outstanding individual each year who has brought honor and recognition to the college. Awards are presented yearly ad more than one may be given. After receiving nominations, the CALS Alumni Board selects the recipients. For the Alumni Achievement Award, nominees must be a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, must have a career in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, or a related field, graduated within the past 15 years, and must have made an exceptional career and/or community service record thus far. 

Pat Dixon received his B.S. in Agricultural Education in 2005 from the University of Idaho. Born and raised on a small potato and cattle farm in Idaho Falls, Dixon has always had a hand in agriculture. He spent his childhood caring for cattle and spending tie with family on the farm. "I worked on the farm as a hydro aluminum transfer technician through high school and my time in college," he proudly states, referring to his pipe-moving days. In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, fishing, hunting, working in agriculture, and spending time with his family. 

Dixon serves as an agricultural teacher and FFA adviser, and is extremely passionate about his career. "Teaching agriculture is an awesome profession. Being able to teach a subject that I am passionate about to students that want to be there is so much fun. Agriculture is a broad curriculum so I really get to introduce students to new things all year." Dixon shared other achievements that he has earned in the past: Idaho Ag Teacher of the Year 2017, Idaho Agriculture Program of the Year 2017, Columbia Teacher of the Year 2013, and IATA President 2012. 

In reaction to receiving the Alumni Achievement Award, Dixon states, "I am humbled by the award that I received this year. It is always nice to feel like the work that you are doing is recognized and that you are on the right track. The University of Idaho and CALS have been instrumental in my success as an ag teacher and the success of our profession." The advice he would give for future agricultural teachers is that there is no way around working those crazy hours, but you will be teaching and learning from some of the best student this state has to offer. "As long as you are trying to be the best you every day and all of your decisions are based around what is best for students, you will never go wrong. 


Written by Lynnsey Tracy
Fall 2019


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