NASHVILLE —Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher, D.V.M. is announcing the appointment of Kim Doddridge as public information officer for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA).
Doddridge joins TDA with an extensive background in professional communications. She will help coordinate media relations, internal and external communications, and public outreach.
“Clear communication is always a top priority for our department,” Commissioner Hatcher said. “Kim brings a level of trust and professionalism to this role that will benefit Tennessee’s agriculture industry. Whether it’s handling an emergency or telling the important story of agriculture in our state, I’m confident in Kim’s skills and experience.”
Doddridge’s career spans public agencies and the private sector. Most recently she served as communications specialist and public information officer for Maury County Public Schools. From weather events, to safety alerts to day-to-day operations, Doddridge oversaw strategic communications to faculty, staff, students, parents and community members. Prior to joining the school district, Doddridge directed marketing and public relations for financial institutions in Middle Tennessee.
“The opportunity to contribute to the communications team at TDA is gratifying,” Doddridge said. “This team is efficient and responsive to needs across the state, as every Tennessean is impacted by agriculture in so many ways every single day. Already, I have gained a better understanding of how the department impacts economic and workforce development, stewardship of our natural resources, and overall healthy living.”
Doddridge is a native of Kentucky. She lives in Nashville with her husband and in her spare time enjoys travelling, watching movies, and reading. Media with inquiries about TDA and the department’s programs can contact Kim at 615-253-3224 or 615-519-1405, or by email at kim.doddridge@tn.gov.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s mission is to promote responsible use of our agricultural and forest resources, develop economic opportunities, and ensure safe and dependable food and fiber for the citizens of Tennessee. For more information, visit www.tn.gov/agriculture.