The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce announced a pair of leadership assignments Wednesday.
Michael Lasseter, executive director of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds, has been appointed to chief projects officer at MDAC. Hayes Patrick, who serves as deputy commissioner, will temporarily assume Lasseter’s responsibilities at the fairgrounds in Jackson while continuing to serve in his current role.
Lasseter, an MDAC employee of 25 years, will now oversee special projects for the entire agency, including renovation and improvement projects at the fairgrounds, the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum, agency headquarters, the Bureau of Plant Industries office in Starkville, and the metrology lab at Alcorn State University.
“I am proud to name Michael Lasseter as the chief projects officer for the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce,” Commissioner Andy Gipson said. “Michael took the role of executive director of the state fairgrounds during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to successfully leading the fairgrounds during those challenging times, Michael has consistently managed major improvements and special projects on the fairgrounds.
“His institutional knowledge, project management skills, and ability to deliver results make him the ideal choice to oversee MDAC’s infrastructure and development initiatives.”
Patrick joined MDAC in 2019 as director of the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson and was later promoted to deputy commissioner in 2023. A lifelong beef producer, Patrick has extensive experience in business management and development, education, and agriculture.
“I am pleased to appoint Hayes Patrick as the acting executive director of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds,” Gipson said. “Hayes has demonstrated outstanding leadership as deputy commissioner and previously as director of the [museum]. His ability to manage complex operations, engage the public, coordinate mass attendance events, and lead with integrity makes him well-suited to serve in this dual role and guide the fairgrounds during this time of transition.”
Both Lasseter and Patrick were pleased with the appointments, agreeing that it’s for the betterment of the agency.
“I am thrilled to step into the chief projects officer role at the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce,” Lasseter said. “With 25 years at the department, I am eager to continue working with the fairgrounds and the department but with a focus on special projects that strengthen our facilities and support Mississippi agriculture.”
“It’s been an honor working with the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, and I’m excited to step into this role and help lead the Mississippi State Fairgrounds into its next chapter,” Patrick added. “I look forward to building on its strong legacy, supporting our agricultural heritage, and creating memorable experiences for all who visit.”
MDAC is tasked with supporting and regulating agricultural businesses and promoting Mississippi’s agricultural products. The state fairgrounds in Jackson host more than 700 events each year, including large-scale events like the state fair and the Dixie National Rodeo.
