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The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) has announced that Dana L Brooks, a veteran government relations professional with experience at state and federal levels, has been hired to serve as its new Senior Director of Government Relations, according to the World Dairy Diary.

“We're excited that Dana is joining NMPF," said Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF. "She will bolster NMPF’s presence on Capitol Hill and will make a great addition to our team."

Brooks will report to Jaime Castaneda, Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Trade Policy.

“Dana’s bi-partisan experience in Congress, and deep knowledge of agricultural issues, will enhance our capabilities to deal with the numerous challenges facing our cooperatives and dairy producers,” said Castaneda.

Brooks previously worked in Washington as a legislative assistant for two members of Congress. After her legislative positions on Capitol Hill, Brooks served as Director of Congressional Relations for the American Farm Bureau Federation in Washington, DC.

Brooks most recently worked on national policy issues at Florida Farm Bureau in Gainesville, FL. Throughout her career, including work on two Farm Bills, she has developed a thorough understanding of a variety of farm-related legislative issues, Castaneda said.

Brooks will start at NMPF on 1 January 2009.