.png "Secretary Rollins Announces New USDA Leadership Appointments")
Bonnie Johnson
September 22, 2025
Media ArticleU.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced a new slate of presidential appointments and state directors to lead key positions at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
“Today’s new USDA presidential appointments will help carry forward the important work of serving the people who feed and fuel our country, delivering real results for rural America, putting our Farmers First.
Together, we will continue to strengthen our food supply, protect our family farms, and ensure USDA is working on behalf of the American people. I welcome this latest group of appointees and look forward to working together,” said Secretary Rollins.
Among the key appointments, Samuel Berry was named Chief Information Officer, bringing a decade of private sector experience in software startups focused on automation and efficiency.
Ken Verheyen and Layne Bangerter were appointed Senior Advisors for the U.S. Forest Service. Verheyen built a global technology service company and is known for customer service and innovation, while Bangerter owns a farm and ranch and has a strong federal service background including work with the U.S. Senate and USDA.
Monica Mason will serve as Senior Advisor with the Rural Housing Service, bringing experience in financial services and marketing.
Steve Messeh becomes Director of the Center of Faith after years in government consulting and nonprofit leadership. Ted Hanson is the new Chief of Staff for the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration, bringing skills in logistics and security management.
Several state leaders were also appointed: Joyce White as State Director for Georgia Rural Development, Richard “Buddy” Nichols as State Executive Director for the Hawaii Farm Service Agency, Wade Lee as State Director for Hawaii Rural Development, Mike Sexton as State Director for Iowa Rural Development, Ronald Russell as State Director for Missouri Farm Service Agency, and Bill Warden as State Director for Montana Rural Development.
These leaders will guide USDA programs that support farmers, protect natural resources, and promote rural growth across the nation, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to put farmers and rural communities first.
Photo by:usda
