While serving in that capacity, Ms. Coler was instrumental in the implementation of the 2002 Farm Bill which included the restoration of food stamp benefits to legal immigrants. Under her leadership, the Food Stamp Program has pursued an active outreach and education effort, designed to improve access for low-income families and individuals. In addition, the Food Stamp Program has enjoyed its highest ever payment accuracy rate. 

Prior to joining FNCS, Ms. Coler served as Director of Government Relations for the Food Marketing Institute, a trade association representing grocery stores and food wholesalers. 

Before her position with FMI, Ms. Coler served as Federal Legislative Representative for the American Bankers Association and was the organization's primary liaison to Members of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees and USDA officials. Ms. Coler also served as Legislative Director to U.S. Congressman Tom Latham of Iowa, as Legislative Assistant to U.S. Congressman Tom Ewing of Illinois, and as a Research Associate for the Illinois General Assembly. 

A native of Minnesota, Ms. Coler received a BA degree in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.