Dr. Arun Basu

Arun C. Basu was born in Calcutta, India. He completed his college studies from Calcutta University with a Bachelor of Science (1 st Class Honors) majoring in Agricultural Sciences.

After graduation, he served as the Subdivisional Agricultural Officer in Darjeeling (home to the fines tea in the world). Following this, he worked as a Technical Adviser for the Illam Region in Eastern Nepal.

In July 1957, he married Sipra, a beautiful young lady from Bihar. In January 1961 he came to University of Missouri. In 1962, he received his Master of Science in extension and in 1966, he received his Ph. D. in Agricultural extension Administration.

Following this he worked at the University of West Virginia. In 1969, he came to work with the Civil Rights Staff, Extension Service, U. S. Department of Agriculture. In 1980 he accepted a position as Director, Civil Rights Staff, Soil Conservation Service (currently NRCS). He completed his SES Candidate Development Program training at Yale University and has served as a Senior Executive, Special Assistant to the Chief, NRCS.

He has been a leader in the field of civil rights for the Department. He has served as President of the Organization of South Asian Americans in Agriculture (OSAAA) and been a mentor to numerous employees. For 38 years, he has served with dedication and distinction, and retired from federal service effective June 2, 2007.

This page was last modified on July 22, 2008.