USDA: Obama administration names Stan Gruszynski to serve as state director for rural development in Wisconsin

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USDA Office of Communication 202-720-4623

WASHINGTON, June 29, 2008 – The Obama Administration today announced that Stan Gruszynski will serve as Wisconsin State Director for Rural Development at the USDA.

“Stan Gruszynski will be an important advocate on behalf of rural communities throughout the state and help administer the valuable programs and services provided by the USDA that can enhance their economic success,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Gruszynski is currently the director of Rural Leadership and Community Development for the Global Environmental Management Center at the University of Wisconsin’s Stevens Point College of Natural Resources. Prior to that position, he served as the Director of Public Affairs for USDA Rural Development in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, for seven years. While at Rural Development, he promoted rural program initiatives and fostered working relationships with community groups, Indian Tribes and underserved populations. Gruszynski was also appointed acting State Director for several months in 2003. From 1984-1994, he represented the 71st district in the Wisconsin State Assembly and served on both the rural affairs and natural resources committees. While working as the Midwest District Field Services Officer at the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation, he focused on affordable housing issues. Gruszynski served as the Majority Caucus Director for the Wisconsin State Senate and is currently a board member on several environmental and academic organizations. He holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Northland College in Wisconsin.

Rural Development administers and manages over 40 housing, business, and community infrastructure and facility programs as laid out by Congress through a network of 6,100 employees located in 500 national, state and local offices. These programs are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Rural Development has an existing portfolio of over $114 billion in loans and loan guarantees.

The USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture and natural resources and touches the life of every American. Reflecting President Obama’s commitment to expanding economic opportunities in rural America, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and the USDA are working to enhance availability of broadband, promote the development of renewable energy, to conserve, maintain and improve our natural resources and environment, and promote a sustainable, safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply.