Bonnie Johnson
May 26, 2025
Media ArticleThe USDA appoints William J. Graff as the new Illinois Farm Service Agency (FSA) executive director and Jesus Ortega as the Illinois Rural Development state director, effective May 2.
Graff, a lifelong farmer from Logan County, returns to the FSA role for the fourth time. He previously served during both terms of President George W. Bush and was reappointed in 2017. Graff holds a degree in agricultural industry management from Illinois State University and has decades of farming and leadership experience.
He is deeply involved in agricultural communities, serving in local organizations like the Logan County Farm Bureau and the Illinois Beef Association. His service also includes roles on various boards, such as the Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Bill Committee and the Illinois State Fair Advisory Board.
Graff and his wife currently manage a farm where they raise cattle and grow corn, soybeans, and hay. His family has farmed in central Illinois since 1824.
Ortega, a graduate of Loyola University Chicago, brings public policy and campaign experience. His past roles include working with state representatives, nonprofit boards, and political campaigns. Ortega expresses enthusiasm for his new role, stating that “serving the people of the Land of Lincoln is a great honor.”
He plans to visit all 11 Rural Development offices in Illinois to meet teams, tour projects, and strengthen services. Ortega aims to introduce new energy and ideas to improve programs that benefit rural communities.
“When America’s farming communities prosper, the entire nation thrives,” said USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins. “I am grateful for the leadership of these new state directors.”
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