Manchin Applauds Appointment of Ryan Thorn to Lead Usda's West Virginia Rural Development Office

Statement

Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) applauded the appointment of Ryan Thorn to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) West Virginia Rural Development Office. Ryan Thorn currently serves as Senator Manchin's Economic Development Manager.

"Born and raised in West Virginia, Ryan Thorn has spent his career advocating for West Virginians, small businesses and communities to better our entire state through economic development, expansion and workforce retention," said Senator Manchin. "Ryan has been a tremendous public servant, helping countless West Virginians and organizations during his time serving the great people of West Virginia as a dedicated member of my staff. I have been very fortunate to have Ryan on my staff, and the people of West Virginia have been better for it. Ryan will be sorely missed, and while Gayle and I are sad to see him leave we know he will continue his great work for the Mountain State at USDA. Congratulations and good luck to Ryan in his new endeavor, the USDA is lucky to have you joining their team in West Virginia."

Background on Ryan Thorn:
Born, raised, and educated in West Virginia, Ryan Thorn grew up the son of a coal miner and learned early in life the importance of hard work, serving others, and dedication to creating opportunities for rural communities. Thorn has fifteen years of professional experience in the private and public sectors, working in the fields of public and government affairs and economic development. Prior to his appointment at the USDA -- Rural Development, he served more than five years as Economic Development Manager for Senator Joe Manchin. In this role, he worked with local, state, and federal stakeholders to attract new and expand existing businesses, strengthen public infrastructure, develop a skilled and ready workforce, and create economically diverse and resilient communities across the state. Thorn is the first in his immediate family to graduate from college and is an advocate for lifelong learning. He holds a master's degree from West Virginia University, a bachelor's degree from West Virginia Wesleyan College, and is a board member of the Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College Foundation.

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