Joan Scheel

Born and raised in a farm community in the southeast corner of NE, Joan Scheel has spent most of her life in Nebraska.  The daughter of a second-generation farm family, her background instills a deep, understanding of issues facing rural America. Scheel has worked for Rural Development for over 15 years and has dedicated her career to assisting rural Nebraska’s businesses and communities.  

Prior to joining Rural Development, Joan has over 25 years of experience working in the food industry.  Her extensive knowledge of starting food businesses to manufacturing and distribution of food products has been extremely important when working with rural farming communities. In a position at the University of Nebraska, Joan started an entrepreneur program for individuals wanting to start new food businesses.  Many of these start-ups are still active businesses today.  

Joan is honored to have the opportunity to lead and serve the great state of Nebraska.  Her primary mission is to be a positive force in assisting Nebraska’s rural communities.  Joan holds a Master of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska.