Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services
Kate Coler was appointed Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services (FNCS) on Dec. 1, 2003. FNCS works to harness the Nation's agricultural abundance to end hunger and improve health in the United States. Its agencies administer federal domestic nutrition assistance programs and the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, which links scientific research to the nutrition needs of consumers through science-based dietary guidance, nutrition policy coordination, and nutrition education.
Ms. Coler first joined USDA's Food and Nutrition Service on June 24, 2002 as Deputy Administrator, Food Stamp Program. While serving in that capacity, she was instrumental in the implementation of the 2002 Farm Bill which expanded eligibility and streamlined program operations. Under her leadership, the Food Stamp Program pursued an active outreach and education effort designed to improve access for low-income families and individuals. In addition, the Food Stamp Program achieved its highest ever payment accuracy rate.
Prior to joining USDA, Ms. Coler served as Director of Government Relations for the Food Marketing Institute, a trade association representing grocery stores and food wholesalers. In this role she worked with Congress and the Executive Branch on nutrition, trade and agriculture issues. Before her position with FMI, Ms. Coler served as Federal Legislative Representative for the American Bankers Association and was the organization's primary liaison to Members of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees and USDA officials. Ms. Coler also served as Legislative Director to U.S. Congressman Tom Latham of Iowa, as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Congressman Tom Ewing of Illinois, and as a Research Associate for the Illinois General Assembly.
A native of Minnesota, Ms. Coler received a BA degree in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
