Born, raised, and educated in West Virginia, Ryan Thorn grew up the son of a coal miner and learned early in life the importance of hard work, serving others, and dedication to creating opportunities for rural communities. Thorn has more than fifteen years of professional experience in the private and public sectors, working in the fields of public and government affairs and economic development.
In March of 2022, Thorn was appointed by President Joe Biden to serve as State Director for USDA Rural Development in West Virginia. State Directors are tasked with carrying out the mission of the agency, implementing strategy, promoting agency programs, and providing leadership, development, and support to Rural Development’s workforce in their respective states.
Prior to his appointment at Rural Development, he served more than five years as Economic Development Manager for the Office of U.S. Senator Joe Manchin III. In this role, he worked with local, state, and federal stakeholders to attract new and expand existing businesses, strengthen public infrastructure, develop a skilled and ready workforce, and create economically diverse and resilient communities across the state.
Thorn is the first in his immediate family to graduate from college and is an advocate for lifelong learning. He holds a master’s degree from West Virginia University, a bachelor’s degree from West Virginia Wesleyan College, is a board member of the Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College Foundation and serves on the Visiting Committee for West Virginia University Extension. Thorn resides in Charleston, West Virginia.
