Our CEO and Leader

Arthur L. Neal, Jr. is a distinguished senior executive with over 30 years served at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, where he held a broad range of impactful leadership roles such as the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Deputy Administrator for the Federal Grain Inspection Service, Deputy Administrator for the Transportation and Marketing Program, as well as Associate Deputy Administrator for the National Organic Program. Arthur brings extensive hands-on experience in organizational leadership, agriculture and food policy development, strategic problem-solving, mentoring, coaching, mediation, and coalition-building. Known for his ability to navigate complex organizational, industrial, and relational challenges, Arthur consistently fosters healthier, more collaborative outcomes for all stakeholders. His leadership is rooted in service, and he is deeply committed to equipping the next generation of emotionally intelligent, capable, and mission-driven leaders who can meet both current and future demands.

Arthur attended Southern University Agricultural and Mechanical College, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics.  He also attained a master’s degree, in Agricultural Economics and International Marketing, from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas, while also studying at the Scottish Agricultural College in Aberdeen, Scotland (UK). 

Arthur is an active member in his local community, serving, through his church, as a congregational and compassionate care leader.  Also, for the past fifteen years, he has partnered with the Jackie Robinson Foundation, serving on its Mid-Atlantic Scholars Advisory Committee, facilitating mentoring and leadership development workshops, and delivering motivational messages for its talented scholars.  Arthur has recently joined the national board of directors for the Midwest Food Bank, a faith-based organization, that shares the love of Christ by alleviating hunger, malnutrition, and providing disaster relief (locally and internationally) without discrimination.