Jenny Lester Moffitt, a lifelong advocate for sustainable agriculture and rural vitality, has been named senior fellow at American Farmland Trust (AFT). In this new role, Moffitt will work to enhance the resilience and profitability of America’s farms and ranches while supporting rural communities and economies.
Moffitt’s portfolio at AFT will center on fostering diverse and sustainable agricultural operations to ensure rural communities thrive for generations to come. Her work will focus on future-proofing economies, preserving rural lifestyles and supporting farmers and ranchers in navigating complex challenges.
Moffitt brings a wealth of experience to AFT, having recently served as Under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). As the first woman in this position, she led the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), focusing on creating a more reliable, resilient and equitable food system.
Her tenure at USDA included oversight of transformative initiatives such as the Food Systems Transformation Initiative, the Competition Initiative and the Organic Transition Initiative. Before joining USDA, Moffitt served as deputy secretary for policy at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, championing climate-smart agriculture and sustainable farming practices.
A fifth-generation California farmer, Moffitt grew up on her family’s organic walnut farm, where she later served as managing director for a decade. She is a Brown University graduate, and her first professional role after college was at AFT.
“We are proud and fortunate to have Jenny return to AFT, bringing her many laudable experiences and accomplishments,” said John Piotti, AFT president and CEO. “Her leadership will be invaluable in our critical work of building resilience within America’s farms, ranches, and rural communities.”
Reflecting on her new role, Moffitt stated, “Growing up and working on my family’s farm taught me the importance of caring for the land and the people who farm it. I am honored to return to American Farmland Trust and contribute to its mission of protecting farmland, promoting sound farming practices, and keeping farmers on the land.”
Moffitt will officially begin her role as senior fellow at AFT on February 3, 2025.
For more information about American Farmland Trust and its mission, visit www.farmland.org.
