United We Thrive.
Founded in 1916, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) is a leader and problem solver on our nation’s most important agricultural issues. Speaking on behalf of a unified voice from all 50 states and four territories, NASDA is a nonpartisan association working to influence policy that is beneficial for all regions, people and environments.
On the front lines for the industry we love, NASDA gives a voice to agriculture through policy, partnerships and public engagement. Because agriculture leads the way for a healthy and resilient world, NASDA members are committed to representing the interests of everyone in the food supply chain who work every day to provide life’s necessities at affordable prices and in a healthy, sustainable manner.
Ted McKinney serves as the Chief Executive Officer of NASDA, a position to which he was named in September 2021. Prior to NASDA, he was also the first U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs from 2017-2021. In that role, Under Secretary McKinney led the development and implementation of the Department’s trade policy, oversaw and facilitated foreign market access, and promoted opportunities for U.S. agriculture through various trade programs and high-level government negotiations. He also oversaw the U.S. Codex Alimentarius staff and functions. After his USDA service, McKinney was engaged in foreign affairs and outreach involving the US food and agriculture industry and its engagement with the United Nations Food Systems Summits.
Leadership
NASDA is governed by a 10-member board of directors consisting of a five-member executive committee; one at-large member; and the presidents of the four NASDA regions.
