NFU Welcomes Dr. Bronaugh’s Confirmation as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture
WASHINGTON – In a voice vote, the U.S. Senate last night confirmed Dr. Jewel Bronaugh to serve as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, making her the first Black woman to hold the position.
Dr. Bronaugh brings upwards of two decades worth of experience in food and agriculture, serving most recently as the Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services since 2018. During her career, she has worked on a number of issues, including food access, rural mental health, local and regional food systems, and conservation.
Given her extensive familiarity with farm programs, extension, education, and research, National Farmers Union (NFU) welcomed Dr. Bronaugh’s nomination in January, a sentiment echoed by the organization’s president Rob Larew upon her confirmation:
“Family farmers, rural communities, and consumers deserve a food system that is fair, sustainable, and equitable. Getting there won’t be easy, but we feel confident that Dr. Jewel Bronaugh has what it takes to meet the moment. With her many years of experience working directly with farmers, her expertise in a variety of relevant areas, and her unique perspective as the first Black woman in this role, Dr. Bronaugh will be able to move the department and the industry in the right direction. As she does so, we look forward to supporting and advising her work.”
About NFU
National Farmers Union advocates on behalf of nearly 200,000 American farm families and their communities. We envision a world in which farm families and their communities are respected, valued, and enjoy economic prosperity and social justice.
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