WASHINGTON, July 30, 2021 — Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack released the following statement regarding the appointment of Phyllis Fong as Acting Inspector General of the Federal Housing Finance Authority. Fong will continue to serve as the IG for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) while she serves as the Acting FHFA IG.
“For nearly two decades, Phyllis has fostered an environment of transparency, accountability, and safety at USDA while serving as Inspector General,” said Secretary Vilsack. “Her numerous awards and leadership in this area highlight her commitment to ensuring that federal programs are effective and to preventing fraud, waste, and abuse. We are thankful for her integrity, and for her service to our Department and the people we serve.”
Fong has served as Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) since 2002, where she was the senior official responsible for audits, investigations, and other oversight activities relating to USDA’s programs and operations. Fong served for three terms as the Chairperson of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency. She also served as a member of the Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board. In 2015, she received the Frank Greathouse Distinguished Leadership Award from the Association of Government Accountants for sustained outstanding leadership in financial management and notable professional contributions at the national level.