HONOLULU, Hawaii\u2014Gigi Jones has been appointed as the new state director for USDA Rural Development in Hawaii and the Western Pacific.<\/p>\n
Prior to her appointment as state director, Jones founded a grassroots effort known as Cool Our Keiki, a campaign focused on cooling Hawaii\u2019s overheated classrooms across the state.<\/p>\n
Jones\u2019s diverse background spans more than 20 years and covers many sectors including engineering, architecture, education, infrastructure improvements, healthcare, customer service, marketing and business development.<\/p>\n
As state director, Jones will use her leadership experience to oversee Rural Development programs in a customer-focused manner to restore prosperity in rural Hawaii and the Western Pacific.<\/p>\n
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. 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. Understanding that we live in a global economy where trade is of top importance, Perdue has pledged to advocate for American agriculture.<\/p>\n
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.
\nFor more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov. (PR)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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