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The Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development (USDA(RD)) is a high-ranking official in the United States Department of Agriculture and the principal advisor to the United States Secretary of Agriculture responsible for oversight of the Department's rural development programs and policies.
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The Under Secretary is appointed by the President of the United States with the consent of the United States Senate to serve at the pleasure of the President. The current Under Secretary is Lisa Mensah, who was appointed Under Secretary for USDA Rural Development in November 2014.
Overview
The Under Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, as head of the Office of Rural Development, provides assistance to the Nation's rural communities. In particular, this assistance comes in three areas: business, utilities, and housing. The Under Secretary oversees loans, grants, and technical assistance to rural residents, communities, and businesses.
With the rank of Under Secretary, the USDA(RD) is a Level III position within the Executive Schedule. Since January 2010, the annual rate of pay for Level III is $165,300.
Reporting officials
Officials reporting to USDA Rural Development Under Secretary include:
Office holders
The previous Under Secretary was Dallas Tonsager, who was appointed by President Barack Obama on May 18, 2009.