President & Chief Executive Officer
Debbie Raven graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in 1976 with a degree in Ag Business Management. Upon graduation, she began her lending career with Visalia Production Credit Association as their first female agricultural loan officer, where she ultimately served as a Vice President –Branch Manager. Seeking part-time employment so she could devote time to her raising her family, she began working for Valley Small Business Development Corporation (“Valley”) in 1990 to set up the agricultural lending program. Under Debbie’s direction, Valley became one of the leading FSA guarantee lenders in the state. She also developed and administered multiple disaster programs to assist farmers that were negatively impacted from frost, severe weather conditions, and drought. After serving in a variety of roles within the organization, she became the President/CEO in 2008. Debbie is active on many Boards and organizations including Ag One – Fresno State, SCORE Advisory Board, Common Threads, Community Salute, many church and community organizations, and a former Community Club Dairy Leader of Elkhorn 4-H. Debbie is also a partner with her husband and son in a diversified farm operation in the Selma-Kingsburg area.
draven@vsbdc.com
