The Trump Administration recently appointed Jim Tracy as the new State Director for USDA Rural Development in Tennessee. Tracy begins his new role today, Monday, November 13, 2017.
Tracy brings 13 years’ experience serving as Tennessee State Senator for the 14th Senatorial District where he was a strong advocate for rural and agriculture issues. Jim’s ties to agriculture began in his youth when he was active in 4-H and on the family farm. He grew up in West Tennessee where his father was a county extension agent.
Tracy also has 24 years’ experience as a small business owner and early in his career, he taught Agricultural Education in high school. Jim and his family reside in Shelbyville, TN.
As State Director, Tracy will use his leadership experience to oversee Rural Development programs in a customer-focused manner to restore prosperity in rural Tennessee.
Under the direction of Secretary Sonny Perdue, the USDA will always be facts-based and data-driven, with a decision-making mindset that is customer-focused. Secretary Perdue leads the USDA with four guiding principles: to maximize the ability of American agriculture to create jobs, sell foods and fiber, and feed and clothe the world; to prioritize customer service for the taxpayers; to ensure that our food supply is safe and secure; and to maintain good stewardship of the natural resources that provide us with our miraculous bounty. And understanding that we live in a global economy where trade is of top importance, Secretary Perdue has pledged to be an unapologetic advocate for American agriculture.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; homeownership; community services such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.