Jean Joins Tennessee Department of Agriculture
NASHVILLE — Tennessee Department of Agriculture Commissioner Julius Johnson is announcing the appointment of former Nashville television news producer Samantha Jean as deputy director of communications.
“Samantha brings a wealth of media experience and knowledge to her new role with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture,” Johnson said. “Her talent for visual storytelling will be an asset in sharing the stories of farming, forestry, and the rural communities of Tennessee.”
Jean joins assistant commissioner for Public Affairs Tom Womack and communications director Corinne Gould, and will help coordinate media relations, public outreach and videography for the department.
Jean is an Emmy-award-winning producer with nine years of experience in the news and television production industries. She most recently produced weekend newscasts and managed staff and resources at NewsChannel 5 in Nashville, and she continues her involvement with production and coordination of the MidSouth Regional Emmy Awards Gala. With a degree in mass communication from Middle Tennessee State University, her skills in writing and shooting and editing will highlight the impact TDA has on all Tennesseans.
"People can take for granted the role agriculture plays in their lives,” Jean said. “No matter where you live or work, the moment your feet hit the ground, agriculture keeps things moving. I look forward to being a part of that important story in Tennessee."
Jean is a native of Michigan but moved to Cookeville as a child and considers Tennessee home. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her family, watching documentaries, baking, and knitting with her church's prayer shawl ministry.
Media can contact Corinne Gould at 615-837-5207 and corinne.gould@tn.gov, or Samantha Jean at 615-837-5206 and samantha.jean@tn.gov.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s mission is to promote wise use of our agricultural and forest resources, develop economic opportunities and ensure safe and dependable food and fiber for the citizens of Tennessee.