
Demetrice Evans is a native of Starkville, Mississippi. The youngest of four born to a middle-class family, Evans’ father was devoted to providing a modest and honest living as his mother spent most of her life as a housewife; providing full-time care to his elderly maternal grandmother who lived to be 94 years of age. As hardworking blue-collar workers, Evans’ parents very well understood the importance and value of a good education, and to the extent possible, were committed to ensuring that each child had an opportunity to receive an education.
After finishing high school at B.L. Moor Attendance Center, Evans went on to obtain an Associate of Applied Science degree in Forestry Technology from Itawamba Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Forest Products and a minor in General Business Administration, and a Master of Science in Woods Products Business Management from Pennsylvania State University. After finishing from Pennsylvania State University, Evans was employed as Special Accounts Manager for Franklin Corporation, which is one of the largest privately-owned furniture manufacturer in Mississippi, employing approximately 1,500 employees. Evans who was the company’s first black executive officer was later promoted to International Sales Manager.
In 2008, Evans decided to apply for a position with the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (FSA). He started his career with USDA as a county operations trainee (COT). After one year as a COT, he was promoted to a County Executive Director and was later elevated to the Mississippi State FSA office as an Agricultural Program Specialist in a little over two years. While he possesses a clear admiration of the furniture industry, Evans has found a home in Farm Service Agency, a place he’s been for over 15 years. Evans has come full circle by helping farmers like his grandparents succeed even when things don’t go as planned.
I’m fortunate to not only have a job in the agricultural field, but to also maintain a family farm in rural Mississippi. Although I always envisioned owning a beef cattle operation, I never once thought I would have a prominent career with the United States Department of Agriculture. I now oversee farm programs through an agency my grandfather once depended upon. While it’s unfortunate that I never had the opportunity of meeting him, I’m certain he would be proud that his legacy continues. Since 2021, Evans has served as the Chief of the Price Support Division and is the first black to hold this position in Mississippi. Evans enjoys spending time on the farm and traveling with his family.
