Tim McNeilly, (202) 690-0498
tmcneill@rdmail.rural.usda.gov

USDA APPOINTS GINETTE DENNIS TO HEAD RURAL DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS IN COLORADO

     WASHINGTON, March 23, 2001--The U.S. Department of Agriculture today appointed Ginette "Gigi" Dennis as the Colorado State Director for USDA Rural Development.

     Dennis, from Pueblo West, Colo., has been Colorado's 5th District State Senator since 1994. While in the State Senate, she has held legislative leadership positions, including: Chairman of the Local Government Committee, and Vice-Chairman of both the Transportation Committee and the Interim Air Transportation Committee. Prior to 1994, Dennis was employed by the Public Service Company of Colorado.

     During Dennis' legislative career she has received numerous Legislator of the Year Awards, including awards from the Colorado Association of Commerce and Industry, Paralyzed Veterans Association, Colorado Library Association, and the Legislative Excellence Award from the Colorado Association of School Boards. She is a member of the Colorado Tourism Board and the Pueblo West Rotary Club.

     USDA Rural Development serves as the lead federal entity for rural development needs, and administers program assistance through three agencies: Rural Housing Service, Rural Business - Cooperative Service, and Rural Utilities Service. Further information on USDA Rural Development programs can be obtained by visiting USDA's web site at www.rurdev.usda.gov.

#

Return to Rural Development News and Information Room.