On September 30, 2009, the Obama Administration appointed Jasper Schneider to serve as State Director for USDA Rural Development. In this capacity, Schneider is committed to the success of rural communities and enhancing North Dakota through Rural Development's many programs and resources.

Prior to joining USDA, Schneider represented District 21 in the North Dakota House of Representatives where he served on the Industry Business & Labor and Government & Veteran Affair committees. He formerly had a successful law practice in Fargo and worked as legal counsel to Senator Kent Conrad.

Jasper is a graduate of Jamestown College and Hamline University School of Law. Jasper and his wife Kim have two children and make their home in Bismarck.