Wilcox County native to become Alabama’s first Black USDA Director of Rural Development

Nivory Gordon became Alabama’s first Black director of USDA Rural Development on Wednesday, following his appointment by President Joe Biden. 

An Alabama A&M grad and a native of Wilcox County in Alabama’s Black Belt, Gordon has served 34 years at USDA and brings a wealth of experience and respect. 

“With over 30 years of experience with USDA, Mr. Gordon is a trailblazer whose expertise will be critical as we uplift our farmers and rural communities, many of which have been historically left behind and are in need of a champion who knows their needs,” said Alabama Rep. Terri Sewell. “For the past 10 years, I have worked with Mr. Gordon on a number of projects including the 2011 Choctaw County Water Project, the Lowndes County Water Project, and the 2019 Gordonville Town Hall Project.”

Gordon has held a number of high-ranking positions within USDA, Assistant County Supervisor, Construction Analyst, Rural Development Specialist, Area Specialist, and most recently Area Director.