U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced the appointment of its first permanent chief diversity and inclusion officer.
L’Tonya Davis joins USDA after her work at U.S. Food and Drug Administration, where she most recently served as director of the Office of Communications and Project Management in FDA's Office of Regulatory Affairs, according to a March 2 USDA news release.
"Throughout her career, Ms. Davis has demonstrated a strong commitment to hiring and developing a workforce that reflects the rich and diverse tapestry of America and to creating workplaces where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential," Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in the news release. "As part of our commitment to provide equitable services and mission delivery to all, USDA is also focused on its greatest asset – its people."
Davis' new responsibilities at USDA will dovetail with the department hiring goals, Vilsack said.
"USDA is working to provide equitable service and mission delivery to all, including the dedicated employees who are at the heart of the service we aim to provide," he said in the release. "Our workforce will benefit from Ms. Davis’ leadership and her commitment to ensuring our programs benefit every American."
In addition to improving diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility across USDA, Davis also will oversee implementation of the department's USDA's first-ever DEIA Strategic Plan, the release reported.
"Ms. Davis will join a team of talented, hard-working USDA employees whose work touches the lives of every American, every day," Deputy Agriculture Secretary Dr. Jewel Bronaugh said in the news release. "With her proven track record of change management and adept leadership skills, Ms. Davis is well-equipped to steer the People’s Department on its continued journey to become an organization that centers our employees, our values and our dedication to addressing persistent challenges and barriers towards bringing the best talent to USDA, retaining and investing in our workforce and creating a culture where everyone feels welcomed."
