Central ND News

Toby Stroh has announced his retirement from Dickinson State University (DSU) after a 34-year career. During his tenure, Stroh has significantly influenced the DSU's Agriculture and Technical Studies Program and the wider community in Dickinson.

Stroh held various roles, including assistant professor of Agriculture for the DSU School of Applied Sciences, a member of the DSU Faculty Senate, and was honored with the Faculty/Student Collaborative Research Award in 2008 and the Distinguished Educator of the Year award in 2021.

His career at DSU was marked by significant developments, such as the Agrosecurity Program with the Dickinson Research & Extension Center (REC), which was federally funded and introduced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and biosecurity measures to Southwestern North Dakota. Stroh also contributed to vocational training programs at DSU, including meat processing and diesel technology.

"Toby Stroh has been a pillar of the Dickinson State University Agriculture Program for more than two decades, and his impact on our students and campus community is immeasurable," stated Acting President Ty Orton. "Generations of DSU students have benefited from his knowledge, mentorship, and deep-rooted passion for agriculture. We are incredibly grateful for his years of dedicated service—his leadership and presence will be deeply missed."

Stroh taught a variety of subjects such as Range and Pasture Management and Livestock Production, using the “Agriculture and Technical Studies Mobile Classroom” to provide students with hands-on opportunities. His teaching style, seen during a notable visit with students to Malta, Montana, in 1995, helped set DSU’s agriculture program apart in the region.

As a faculty advisor, Stroh supported projects like the inaugural Kids’ Day on the Farm, which enhanced students’ leadership skills and provided practical agricultural experiences for children. He also collaborated on undergraduate research for DSU’s annual Celebration of Scholars, Opportunities in Agriculture event.

"He told me that I could do anything I set my mind to," reflected 2006 DSU alumnus Nikki (Thompson) Darrington about her time with Stroh, who encouraged her to become the North Dakota Post-Secondary Agricultural Student Organization President and pursue an internship with the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Dr. Chip Poland, Director of Agriculture and Technical Studies, acknowledged that “Toby’s leadership has helped keep us grounded [by] developing an applied program that fits the needs of the northern Great Plains.”

In addition to his contributions to DSU, Stroh is regarded as a model leader within the Dickinson community. Over the years, he brought students to the ranch of longtime friends Leona and James Odermann. Known as a “quiet servant leader,” Stroh is recognized for his justice, dedication, empathy, and support of others.

Reflecting on his 34-year career, Stroh remarked that the years "have gone by really fast" and described DSU as a great place to work and learn, praising the students, administration, and atmosphere. Stroh plans to travel and spend more time with his grandchildren following retirement.

The DSU faculty, staff, students, alumni, and Dickinson community extend their gratitude to Toby Stroh for his significant contributions and wish him well in retirement.

A retirement celebration for Toby Stroh is planned for May 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. MT in the DSU Student Center Ballroom. All are welcome to attend and celebrate his invaluable work with the university community.