Cindy Smith Named APHIS Associate Administrator

April 11, 2007 — 

Dr. Ron DeHaven, administrator for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, today announced the appointment of Cindy Smith as the agency's new associate administrator.

Smith began her career with APHIS in 1979 after graduating high school. In 1983, Smith completed her bachelor of science degree in microbiology from the University of Maryland. She went on to earn her master of science degree in business management from the University of Maryland in 2000.

Throughout her years in APHIS, Smith has gained diverse experience through a number of different positions in APHIS, including plant protection and quarantine, wildlife services and biotechnology regulatory services (BRS). Since 2002, Smith has served as deputy administrator for BRS.

In her new role, Smith will assist in managing one of USDA' most multi-faceted agencies, which includes the plant protection and quarantine program; veterinary services program; wildlife services program; animal care program and the biotechnology regulatory services program. The agency is charged with defending America's animal and plant resources from agricultural pests and diseases. Smith replaces Nick Gutierrez, who is a member of the Foreign Service and accepted APHIS' regional director position in Mexico City.

Source:
USDA, APHIS News Release