Posts by Katy Coba

Katy Coba was born and raised on a wheat ranch in Pendleton, Oregon. Graduating cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, Katy received a bachelors degree in economics with a political science minor from Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington.

Katy was appointed Director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture by Governor Kulongoski in January 2003. As Director, she works with the governor, legislature, agricultural, and consumer groups to carry out the state's agriculture policy. ODA 's three-fold mission includes marketing Oregon agriculture, protecting its natural resources, and ensuring food safety and consumer protection. In her capacity as Director, Katy has worked to market Oregon agricultural products locally, domestically and internationally. She has participated in a number of trade missions to Europe and Asia.

Prior to her current position, Katy’s career in state government includes serving in Governor John Kitzhaber's administration in a number of capacities including Chief Policy Advisor, Economic Development and International Trade PolicyAdvisor as well as Director of Executive Appointments. Prior to that she worked at the Oregon Department of Agriculture from 1989-1995 as a Special Assistant to the Director.

Katy Coba is married and has two daughters. She enjoys participating in a wide variety of athletic events. Katy has also served in a number of volunteer roles including sports commentator for a local TV station. Ms Coba has served as a member of the Oregon Tourism Commission. She also served as an American Association of Young Political Leaders delegate to Germany and Romania in May 1998, where she participated on a US team promoting democracy.