WASHINGTON, July 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced today that she has named Lori J. Pepper as her new Policy Advisor for agriculture, veterans, oversight, and small business issues, and will also serve as the Speaker's liaison to the Blue Dog Coalition. Pepper begins her duties in August.

"In each of her previous roles on Capitol Hill, from representing the Blue Dog Coalition under the direction of Congressman Baron Hill to executing the agenda of the Committee on Science and Technology, Lori has proven to be a valuable asset," Pelosi said. "She now brings her extensive experience and talent to the Speaker's office, and I look forward to working with her as we continue to move America in a New Direction."

Pepper most recently served as Director of Policy and Outreach for the Committee on Science and Technology for Chairman Bart Gordon of Tennessee. She also previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Congressman Baron Hill of Indiana.

Pepper holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland.

Pepper replaces Anne Cannon MacMillan, who recently departed the Speaker's office for a senior position with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

SOURCE Office of the Speaker of the House