NEWS RELEASE

United States Department of Agriculture • Rural Development

1221 College Park Drive, Suite 200, Dover, DE  19904

Phone: (302) 857-3580 • Fax: (302) 857-3640 • TDD: (302) 857-3585 • Web: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov

Baker Promoted to Housing Director

            Dover, DE January 31, 2007 – Patricia (Pat) Baker from Milford, DE has been named the Delaware/Maryland Housing Program Director for USDA Rural Development.  She succeeds Drew Clendaniel, who served in that position from June 2000 until he retired January 3, following 36 years of federal service.

            Rural Development is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that is in its 58^th year of offering housing programs designed to assist low to moderate income families living in rural areas.  Last year, the agency assisted 421 individuals or families across Delaware and Maryland purchase their own home.

            From 1993 until her recent appointment, Baker served as the Multi-Family Housing Coordinator overseeing 225 housing complexes that provide over 6,900 rental apartment units.  Her career began with the agency in 1979 serving in various capacities at the Local and State level offices.  Baker is a graduate of Wilmington College.

            “Pat has a keen understanding of affordable housing and the issues that are important to the residents living in rural Delaware and Maryland,” said Marlene Elliott, USDA Rural Development State Director.  “She brings years of experience to the position that will serve our agency well.” 

            For more information on Rural Development’s housing programs write their State Office at 1221 College Park Drive, Suite 200, Dover, DE  19904 or call 302-857-3600 or visit their website at www.rurdev.usda.gov.