ESPM Grad Named State Director for Rural Development

September 09, 2009
A recent graduate of the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management has been named State Director for Rural Development by the Obama administration.

Dr. Glenda Humiston recently finished her doctoral degree in the Division of Society and Environment. Her dissertation was entitled "Sustainable Agriculture as U.S. Farm Policy: Opportunities and Threats to Reform."

Dr. Humiston served as Deputy Under Secretary of the USDA from 1998 to 2001 where she managed all aspects of USDA conservation mission and environmental programs, a $1.4 Billion budget and over 11,000 employees. Dr. Humiston is continuing her 20+ years of work facilitating local community's efforts for sustainable development.

"These [state directors] will be important advocates on behalf of rural communities in states throughout the country and will help administer the valuable programs and services provided by the USDA that can enhance their economic success," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.