The Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) today announced the election of Brad Deacon to its national board of directors. Deacon is a long-standing figure in the food and agriculture sector and is currently the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (MDARD) Director of Legal Affairs.
“Brad’s passion and commitment for food safety, protecting public health and ensuring MDARD and its partners are ready to respond when emergencies strike is unparalleled, said Gary McDowell, MDARD Director. “This honor is well-earned, and I know he will continue to serve the people with the same drive and energy he does for Michiganders every day.”
AFDO is an international leader and trusted resource for building consensus and promoting uniformity on public health and consumer protection issues related to the regulation of foods, drugs, medical products, cosmetics, and consumer products.
Deacon is heavily engaged in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Rapid Response Team (RRT). He was also one the founding members who submitted the application making Michigan one of the first six RRT states. As an RRT state, Deacon works to bring critical federal grant dollars into the state to fund food, feed, and emergency management/response programs, along with enhancing MDARD’s Geagley Laboratory testing capabilities.
“Growing up on a small dairy farm in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula instilled a deep love of food and agriculture,” said Deacon. “My parents were directly engaged in public health and emergency management. I am proud to build upon that and support the people doing this important work at every level.”
Deacon has worked for MDARD for 23 years. He teaches Agriculture Law and Hospitality Law at Michigan State University College of Law. He earned his bachelor’s and his juris doctorate from Michigan State University.
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