The Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 107.

A resolution honoring Dan Wyant, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture.

Whereas, Dan Wyant has served as the Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) since October of 1996; and

Whereas, Dan has brought a vast and diverse agricultural background to the post, having been raised on a Cass County farm and participating in FFA and 4-H.  He received his bachelor's degree in food systems management from Michigan State University and a master's degree in business administration from American University in Washington, D.C.  He worked in the private sector as a marketing manager at Ralston Purina Company and as an export trade consultant at Lowe's International; and

Whereas, Dan Wyant began his public sector career in the Senate Republican Majority Office.  He then served as the Legislative Liaison for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and worked as Associate Director of Governor John Engler's Office of Legislative Affairs, prior to returning to MDA as Director; and

Whereas, Dan's agricultural background and expertise, coupled with his sound business sense and congenial and inclusive problem-solving style, have made him a true industry leader.  He is well-known and respected throughout the agricultural community, in the legislative arena, by his state colleagues, and by his national peers; and

Whereas, With Dan at the helm, the Michigan Department of Agriculture employees have fostered a deep commitment to responsiveness, collaboration, innovation, and excellence that have been instrumental in addressing and resolving a wide array of food and agriculture industry challenges.  This includes bovine tuberculosis, emerald ash borer, and other animal and plant health and disease issues, the most comprehensive overhaul of Michigan's food safety laws and programs in a generation, the creation of effective and proactive agriculture pollution prevention programs, and the formation of pioneering agricultural economic development initiatives; and

Whereas, Dan has placed top priorities on ensuring food safety and security, promoting and enhancing environmental stewardship, protecting animal and plant health, ensuring consumer protection, creating viable agriculture development opportunities, and integrating technology into the Department's decision-making processes.  Due to this leadership, many of Michigan's programs are recognized as national models; and

Whereas, Dan Wyant has served on numerous state and federal committees, as well as private sector boards, and has been a valuable and integral member of all, leaving his mark through strong participation in these efforts; and

Whereas, Dan's many contributions in both the Engler and Granholm Administrations will long be remembered and their positive impact felt by the agricultural community and others; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body honor Dan Wyant, Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture; and be it further

Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to Dan Wyant as a token of our respect for all his fine work.