Huffman Appointed Director of Rural Development in Oregon

John Huffman has been appointed State Director of the USDA’s Rural Development in Oregon.  A former state legislator, Huffman will now help implement USDA policies and Rural Development programs in the state to improve the economy and quality of life in rural America.  Huffman spent the past 10 years as an Oregon State Representative, and has extensive experience identifying the needs of the rural communities he represented.

Huffman said one of his first achievements in the state legislature was to help bring cellular infrastructure to rural portions of Central Oregon.  Huffman served on the Joint Committee on Ways and Means and numerous ways and means subcommittees over the years.  He also led wide-ranging efforts, from expanding affordable rural housing, to connecting rural businesses with the resources that will enable them to thrive, to supporting the installation of new sources of renewable energy.

Prior to serving in the state legislature, Huffman owned and managed a successful radio station in north central Oregon for 22 years. He is supported in his work by his wife, Korina.  As State Director, Huffman will use his leadership experience to oversee Rural Development programs in a customer-focused manner to improve prosperity in rural Oregon.  Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue has also announced a slate of USDA Rural Development and Farm Service Agency state directors across the country.  USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas.

“It is an honor to be selected by the President to fill the extremely important role of State Director of USDA Rural Development in Oregon,” said Huffman. “I look forward to working with the President, Secretary of Agriculture, and Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development to increase rural prosperity and enhance customer service through innovation and partnerships in our state.”

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