Release No. 0013.06

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STATEMENT BY AGRICULTURE SECRETARY MIKE JOHANNS REGARDING RESIGNATION OF ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR CIVIL RIGHTS VERNON PARKER

 

January 17, 2006

 

"It is with sincere regret that I announce the departure of Vernon Parker, the first ever Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Vernon has decided to leave his post at the beginning of February after three years of tremendous service.

"Vernon has helped us to achieve many civil rights objectives and ensured that we are accountable to our constituents. His passion for improving our programs has greatly benefited USDA and won the trust of those whose voices otherwise might not have been heard. Throughout his tenure, Vernon's dignified manner has led to significant civil rights accomplishments during the Bush Administration.

"Vernon Parker is one of those rare individuals who brings people together to advance a stronger sense of community and giving. We owe him our gratitude and thanks for his service to all of our employees and the people we serve. He will be greatly missed by all of us at USDA and we wish him the very best."


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