If you, like ROC, are committed to creating a sustainable food system, the Obama administration is shaping up nicely. The nomination of Kathleen Merrigan to be the USDA Deputy Secretary is the latest evidence. Although, not a Californian like our hometown favorite Karen Ross (another of the "Sustainable Dozen" endorsed by ROC), Dr. Merrigan is the only alternative to Karen that could have made us this happy. She is a truly terrific choice!

A seasoned champion of organics, she is also clearly committed to social justice and economic viability. Dr. Merrigan embodies sustainability principles and has a track record of embedding these principals into government policy. During her previous tenure at USDA, she worked very closely with ROC's man in Washington DC, Gus Schumacher, and former Under Secretary and ROC Stewardship Council member, Richard Rominger.

We applaud the President, Secretary Vilsack, and all those across this state and the nation who worked with Food Democracy Now, and others to promote Dr. Merrigan.

Sincerely,
Michael R. Dimock
President, Roots of Change

Civil Eats, "Change is Coming: Kathleen Merrigan Named Deputy Secretary of Ag. "
Grist, "Score One Sustainable Food."
La Vida Locavore, "We Love Kathleen!"