Brandon Fewins has been appointed state director for USDA Rural Development in Michigan. He is one of several regional appointments announced by President Joe Biden within the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
"These 12 individuals are incredible public servants who have a proven track record when it comes to their commitment to advance their states and communities," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "Each will serve on the frontlines, carrying out USDA's mission at the state level and ensuring the voice of each and every USDA customer is heard. We are fortunate to have each of these talented individuals at this critical time for farmers and producers and rural communities across America."
RD State Directors serve as the chief executive officer of Rural Development in the states and territories and are tasked with carrying out the mission of rural development to the benefit of everyone in rural America. In conjunction with the guidance and support of the National Office, State Directors are responsible for promoting the mission and strategic goals of Rural Development and provide key leadership to develop and support a productive, diverse, and inclusive state workforce.
"I am honored and humbled to be appointed by the President to join the USDA Rural Development team," Fewins said. "Working for Senator Stabenow the past twenty years, I've come to know firsthand the important services Rural Development delivers to our communities and how dedicated the staff is. USDA Rural Development is the economic development arm for rural America and will be a key agency to assist the President's Build Back Better plan making critical investments into rural Michigan."
Fewins has served as Northern Michigan regional manager for U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow for over 20 years. He has extensive experience working with elected officials, community leaders, USDA and agencies at all levels of government on local economic development and rural development initiatives. He has been an advisor to the Senator and staff of the U.S Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry on issues related to Michigan agriculture, forestry, rural development, the Great Lakes, and conservation. Brandon is a lifelong resident of the Grand Traverse region, grew up on a centennial farm and owns a small business.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.
Categories: Michigan, Business, Rural Lifestyle