Veneman Delivers Farewell Address

Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman on Wednesday delivered her farewell address to the employees at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

"I am always impressed at the ability of USDA, not just to adapt to change but to anticipate it. Over and over again when there is a crisis, USDA is on the front lines -- whether it is an outbreak of animal or plant diseases or a natural disaster like a forest fire, hurricanes or the recent tsunami. We are problem-solvers, leaders and innovators," said Veneman.

"Four years ago, I said, 'My goal in coming here is that we find ways to work together to foster an atmosphere of togetherness and teamwork, of innovation, of mutual respect and common sense, and that we're able to better give quality service to those we serve out in the country.' By that standard, I believe our time at the U.S. Department of Agriculture has been enormously successful," she continued.

Veneman moves on to direct United Nations International Children?s Emergency Fund, more commonly known as UNICEF.