Jane Asselta, vice president of the Southern New Jersey Development Council, has been appointed New Jersey state director for rural development, a mission area within the U.S. Department of Agriculture, by President Joe Biden’s administration.
USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports:
- Infrastructure improvements;
- Business development;
- Housing, community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care facilities;
- High-speed internet access in rural areas.
Asselta, the first woman to hold this position, will lead a team of more than 20 specialists, delivering a comprehensive suite of investment programs and services designed to help residents and businesses in New Jersey’s rural communities increase economic opportunities and improve quality of life standards and conditions.
“I look forward to continuing to expand economic growth opportunities in South Jersey and other rural areas of New Jersey. USDA Rural Development programs finance some $250 million in annual obligations, which makes a real difference for rural towns and their residents,” she said. “I am honored to be appointed by President Biden and grateful for the privilege to serve the rural towns, residents and businesses in northwestern and southern New Jersey.”
About the SNJDC
The Southern New Jersey Development Council is a nonprofit economic development-lobbying organization that promotes responsible economic development in southern New Jersey. The SNJDC membership consists of key leaders and decision makers from the public and private sector who care about the issues concerning the current and future development of South Jersey.
SNJDC President Marlene Asselta applauded the announcement.
“Jane has been an invaluable leader with the SNJDC for over 10 years and will be missed by staff, members and colleagues throughout South Jersey,” she said. “In sharing her talent and skills in association management, economic development and government affairs, she has contributed to the growth and prominence of this organization.
“I am very proud that she has been nominated to this position and am sure she will be as successful there as she has been with us.”
Jane Asselta said the lessons she learned at the SNJDC will stay with her.
“I couldn’t be more prepared to take on an opportunity such as this, thanks to the leadership of the SNJDC, its staff and the results of working with so many members over the past 10 years to provide access to good information; an understanding of the key issues impacting the region’s economic competitiveness; of leveraging access to initiatives and advocating for projects — all to support economic development and business retention and expansion in South Jersey,” she said.
