The Biden Administration announced that Nivory Gordon Jr. has been chosen as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s State Director for Alabama. He is the first Black person to hold that position.
According to an Al.com report, Gordon has served for more than 34 years at the USDA in Rural Development in Alabama. The Alabama A&M University graduate started his career as a Co-Op student and has held several positions at USDA Rural Development, including Assistant County Supervisor, Construction Analyst, Rural Development Specialist, Area Specialist, and Area Director.
During his time, Gordon has overseen several projects, including a new City Hall in Camden and a water delivery system.
According to the White House announcement, the USDA’s Farm Service Agency implements agricultural policy, administers credit and loan programs, and manages conservation, commodity, disaster, and farm marketing programs in each U.S. State. Its mission is to “equitably serve all farmers, ranchers, and agricultural partners through the delivery of effective, efficient agricultural programs for all Americans.”
State Executive Directors ensure the needs of local constituents are met and that USDA resources are distributed equitably and fairly.
State Directors lead offices that offer grants, loans, and loan guarantees to help create jobs and support economic development and essential services.
Gordon is a native of Wilcox County, Alabama, and currently resides there and operates a family farm in Furman, Alabama.
