Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch announced the resignation of Bruce Kettler, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA).
Kettler’s last day will be Jan. 6, 2023.
“Bruce is a lifelong member of the agriculture community and understands the significant role the ag industry plays in Indiana,” said Gov. Eric Holcomb. “Through his dedication and commitment, he has elevated Indiana’s agribusiness development through innovation and a future-focused economy, and his leadership has set the agriculture ecosystem up for long-term success.”
Kettler was appointed to his position in January 2018 by Governor Eric Holcomb. He currently serves as the first vice president on the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Board of Directors.
“As director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Bruce has been a strong voice for Hoosier farmers and the state’s entire agricultural industry,” said Lt. Gov. Crouch, who also serves as Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “His leadership and stewardship have been invaluable, and I wish him well as he transitions back into the private sector.”
Under Kettler, the ISDA:
Expanded growth opportunities for Indiana agriculture through a) development of the rural economic development model and data access for rural economic development professionals, b) advancement of the Indiana Hardwoods strategy and c) implementation of Indiana Dairy Strategy 2.0.
Continued strong growth in soil conservation with increased cover crop adoption and money going to farmers for soil conservation and water quality priorities.
Led the Indiana agriculture industry through the COVID-19 pandemic through communication, cooperation and regular stakeholder meetings. His leadership minimized delays and duplication of efforts in the industry during the rapidly changing COVID-19 landscape.
Though Kettler is stepping down from his ISDA position, he will continue to be an advocate for the agricultural industry as he becomes the new CEO and President of the Agribusiness Council of Indiana.
“Thank you to Governor Holcomb and Lt. Gov. Crouch for asking me to serve the State of Indiana,” said Kettler. “Serving the farmers, businesses and citizens of Indiana has been an honor that I could not have imagined even a few years ago. My five years at the Indiana State Department of Agriculture will hold a special place in my professional career. Leading the team of dedicated individuals working at ISDA has been very rewarding, and I know they will continue their dedication for the next director.”
A search will begin immediately for a successor to Kettler.
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