TED Brady
Favorite Part of Job? USDA Rural Development is the only federal agency dedicated to improving the sustainability and livability of rural communities. It is also one of the last field-based federal agencies, giving me the opportunity to work with Vermont and New Hampshire leaders to connect federal resources to ideas that build food systems, expand the bioeconomy and break the cycle of poverty.
Most Inspiring Mentor: A three way tie between U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy, my father, Patrick Brady, and my mother, Paula Brady.
Tell us something fun about yourself that few people know: I was a volunteer EMT for many years here in Vermont and in Washington, DC.
Favorite Hobby: I once enjoyed fishing and skiing. Then I had kids...now it appears to be playing in the sandbox or coloring.
Favorite Vermont Escape: An untracked line in the trees at Smuggs. 18 inches of snow.
Favorite Social Media: Facebook. I have yet to find a better way to share photos with family and friends across the country.
Favorite Website: Any website with good political commentary - from sevendaysvt.com to the standard NY Times and the Washington Post and everything in between.
Vermont Business Person you would like to have lunch with: Anyone who has an idea that could create jobs and opportunity that USDA could help turn into reality.
Career Highlights: Helping an elementary school student change a federal law to allow her to donate a bullet proof vest to a Border Patrol dog. Connecting Vermont businesses to federal contracts and grant opportunities that helped Senator Leahy create hundreds of jobs across the state. Buying the Irish Taoiseach a whisky in Dublin. Seeing USDA funds turn great ideas into great products, jobs and opportunities.
Community Involvement: Volunteering on election campaigns. Serving on the Vermont Council on Rural Development's Board. Serving on the Vermont Agricultural and Forest Product Development Board. St. Michael's College Fire and Rescue. Bethesda Chevy Chase Rescue Squad.
