WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement regarding the appointment by President Donald J. Trump of Dr. Mark Keenum, President of Mississippi State University, as Chairman of the Board for International Food and Agriculture:

“Dr. Mark Keenum is an outstanding choice to serve as the Chairman of the Board for International Food and Agricultural Development. Mark is uniquely qualified for this role and has worked diligently throughout his career to solve the global food security crisis that threatens to affect the entire world in the coming years. I am proud to have recommended Mark for this appointment, and I applaud President Trump’s decision.”

The Board for International Food and Agricultural Development advises the U.S. Agency for International Development on agriculture and higher education issues pertinent to food insecurity in developing countries. The President appoints members, who primarily represent the academic community. 

Wicker and then-Senator Thad Cochran wrote to President Trump in July 2017 to offer their strongest possible recommendation of Dr. Keenum for this appointment.