HARRISBURG, Pa. — Dennis Wolff, Pennsylvania’s outgoing secretary of agriculture, is joining the partnership at the lobbying firm of Versant Strategies. He had announced his resignation in August.
New role
Wolff’s role at Versant is effective Sept. 14, where he will work with the network of producers, consumers, and private and public organizations that make up the state’s agricultural community.
Wolff was confirmed as Gov. Ed Rendell’s secretary of agriculture in May 2003. During his tenure, he oversaw the creation of some of the state’s most innovative and effective agricultural programs, including the Center for Dairy Excellence, PAgrows and the PA Preferred marketing program.
Background
His own Pen-Col farm, a 600-acre dairy cattle operation, is renowned in the field of specialized genetics. In 1994, Wolff was named a Master Farmer for his work in the agricultural field.
Wolff is president and founder of the Nicholas Wolff Foundation and Camp Victory in Millville, Pa., a nonprofit camp for children with special medical needs.
Wolff joins Versant Strategies’ current partners: John Barley, a Master Farmer with 18 years of experience as a leader in the state House of Representatives; and MeeCee Baker, the firm’s chief operating officer and veteran agricultural educator.
About Versant
Versant Strategies is Pennsylvania’s government relations partnership focusing on agricultural and rural affairs.
The firm provides agricultural and rural businesses, associations and non-profits lobbying, strategic communications and business development expertise.
