New seed administrator appointed to Indiana State Chemist office

Story by Lindsey Berebitsky

Photo by Tom Campbell

November 13, 2023

Jessica McVay, who has worked as a seed analyst, feed microscopist and laboratory coordinator for the Indiana Seed Regulatory Agency for 11 years, has been selected as the new seed administrator in the Office of Indiana State Chemist. In this role, McVay works closely with seedsmen, state and federal regulators, the seed trade industry, and consumers to monitor the compliance of seeds sold and distributed according to the Indiana Seed Law.

McVay, a certified seed analyst in both purity and germination, worked closely with Don Robinson, the previous seed administrator. She knows that established strong relationships with partners are essential to the Indiana State Seed Lab and plans to continue to develop those relationships in her new position.

Mark LeBlanc, director of the Indiana State Chemist office, remarked on McVay’s experience, “During her tenure with the Office of Indiana State Chemist seed program, Jessica has been a skilled, dedicated and hardworking part of our team. She has regularly gone above and beyond to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the seed program. We look forward to her leadership in her new role.”

McVay shared that this position is more than just a job to her. “My grandmother was a seed analyst years before me — I still use the same purity board that she did! She laid a foundation in the seed lab, and it’s been fun to follow in her footsteps. I am excited for this new opportunity within the Office of Indiana State Chemist and the ability to continue to serve and educate the seed industry.”

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