Ag Secretary Ann Veneman Resigns

Agricultural Secretary Ann Veneman announced her resignation today, completing four years of service as a leader in the Bush Administration.

United Fresh Fruits and Vegetables President Tom Stenzel said, "Secretary Veneman has been a strong supporter of the fruit and vegetable industry, and most importantly, a good personal friend."

"The Secretary has spoken with our members at United meetings on numerous occasions during her tenure, and has always had an open door and mind to listen to our industry's concerns."

One of her key accomlishments was the establishment of the first-ever Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee early in her administration. This committee elevated the role of the fruit and vegetable industry in providing advice and counsel directly to the Secretary, and fulfilled an objective long advocated by Untied.

In addition, Secretary Veneman forged the first Memoradum of Understanding to support the National 5 A Day Program, bringing USDA together with the National Cancer Institute and Centers for Disease Control to encourage Americans to increase their consumption of fruits and vegetables.

"This is a bittersweet day as we will sincerely miss working with Secretary Veneman. Yet, she is to be warmly congratulated for her service these past four years, and for the contributions she has provided to the fruit and vegetable industry, and all of United States agriculture," Stenzel added.