News

Nelson named deputy director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture

The Indiana State Department of Agriculture has selected Katie Nelson as its new deputy director.

Indiana Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch, who has worked alongside her for more than six years, says Nelson is a strong advocate for farmers and agriculture in the state.

“We are so excited to promote a longstanding public servant, like Katie, to second in command for the Indiana State Department of Agriculture,” Crouch said. “….I am sure that she will continue to push this industry forward in the coming years.”

In a news release, the ISDA says Nelson will support the director in achieving ISDA’s mission and strategies. Responsibilities will include overseeing day-to-day operations of the department, representing ISDA at events, engaging with producer organizations, and identifying opportunities to grow the state’s agriculture sector. 

ISDA Director Don Lamb says they are excited to see Katie flourish in this role.

“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,” he said.

Nelson has been with the department since 2017. She was previously Director of Legislative Affairs within the department, a role she has held since 2020. Prior to that she was the program manager of policy and regulatory affairs at ISDA.

Nelson graduated in December of 2016 from the University of Missouri with a bachelor’s degree in political science. In 2019, Nelson graduated from the Agribusiness Council of Indiana’s Emerging Professionals Leadership Program. Nelson is a 2021 graduate of the Richard G. Lugar Excellence in Public Service Series. In the summer of 2024, she will become a graduate of the AgriInstitue’s Agriculture Leadership Program, Class 20.

Nelson resides in Franklin with her husband, two children and beloved dog.