Ben Gavelek named new director

INDIANAPOLIS – Today, the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) named Ben Gavelek as the new director of communications.

Prior to joining ISDA, Gavelek began his career in public relations working as a press secretary for the Indiana House of Representatives, Republican Caucus. In that role, he served as the media liaison for eight state lawmakers and was later promoted to the position of deputy communications director.

“We are excited to welcome Ben to our staff,” said ISDA Director Ted McKinney. “As we work to promote Indiana’s robust agriculture industry, his experience in communications and state government will be a valuable addition to our team.”

In his new position, Gavelek will be responsible for the overall management of the ISDA’s Office of Communications and will serve as the principal media contact. He will also help promote and increase public awareness about the agency’s mission which is to support growth in Indiana agriculture by serving as an advocate at the local, state and federal level.

Originally, Gavelek is from Porter County and graduated from Indiana University Northwest with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. He currently lives with his wife, Allison, in Avon, Ind.