LEXINGTON, Ky., Dec. 1, 2009– The Obama Administration has announced that Thomas G. Fern will return to the position of Kentucky State Director for Rural Development at the USDA. Fern previously served as State Director from 1993-2001.
“Thomas Fern will be an important advocate on behalf of rural communities throughout the state and will help administer the valuable programs and services provided by USDA that enhance the economic success of Kentucky’s residents and communities,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.
Fern began his career in USDA more than four decades ago, after graduating from Morehead State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in General Agriculture, Economics and Sociology.
“I grew up in a rural community and I’m personally familiar with the needs of rural Kentuckians,” said Fern. “To have the opportunity to return as state director for an agency that has so many programs structured for enhancing their quality of life is an honor.”
Fern joined USDA in 1965 and worked his way up the ranks, starting out as an Agriculture Management Specialist, County Supervisor, in Vanceburg. He held this position until he was promoted to District Director of the Farmers Home Administration in Morehead in 1978. He remained there until his first appointment as State Director during the Clinton Administration. Fern also served as the director of advertising and marketing for the Kentucky Tourism Development Cabinet, Department of Parks, from 2001-2003.
Full details are in the Gazette print edition
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