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Tom Vilsack

Secretary
U.S. Department of Agriculture

 
 
PAVE leadership 1

Biography

Tom Vilsack was nominated by President Joe Biden to return to a role where he served for eight years under President Barack Obama.

Before returning to USDA, he served as president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) from 2017 until February 2021. In addition to his post at USDEC, he served as a Strategic Advisor to Colorado State University’s food and water initiatives.

Vilsack was the longest-serving member of President Obama’s original Cabinet. Before his appointment at USDA, he served two terms as the Governor of Iowa, served in the Iowa State Senate, and mayor of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa.

He received his bachelor’s degree from Hamilton College and a JD from Albany Law School.

Leadership Positions

  • Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture (2021-Present)
  • President and CEO, U.S. Dairy Export Council (2017-2021)
  • Secretary, U.S. Department of Agriculture (2009-2016)
  • Governor of Iowa (1998-2007)
  • Former Iowa State Senator
  • Former Mayor, City of Mt. Pleasant, IA