Nelson named ISDA deputy director

INDIANAPOLIS — Katie Nelson has been selected as deputy director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.

“We are so excited to promote a longstanding public servant, like Katie, to second in command for the Indiana State Department of Agriculture,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch.

“I have worked alongside Katie for over six years now and she has been a strong advocate for farmers and agriculture in Indiana. I am sure that she will continue to push this industry forward in the coming years.”

As deputy director of the department, Nelson will support the director in achieving ISDA’s mission and strategies.

She will oversee the day-to-day operations of the department, represent ISDA at events, engage with producer organizations and identify opportunities to grow the state’s agriculture sector.

Nelson has served and will continue to serve as a liaison between agricultural businesses, state agencies and local units of government.

“We are excited to see Katie flourish in this role within our department,” said Don Lamb, director of the ISDA.

“Katie has a passion for agriculture, public service and supporting staff. I am hopeful this role will continue to support her as a public servant and bring our staff and department great success.”

Nelson’s work history includes:

• Working at ISDA since 2017.

• Previous director of legislative affairs within the department.

• Program manager of policy and regulatory affairs at ISDA.

• Executive director of the Indiana Land Resources Council.

“Working for ISDA over the last several years has provided me with numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth and allowed me to support my favorite industry, agriculture,” Nelson said.

“I am looking forward to this new challenge of supporting our outstanding staff and continuing to pursue the ISDA mission of bettering Indiana agriculture within policy work, growing economically and enhancing our stewardship of natural resources.”