Farrell named director at O'Berry
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on May 18, 2005 1:45 PM
The assistant director of O'Berry Center will take over as director July 1.
Dr. Frank Farrell, who has served as assistant director since 1988, will assume his new duties upon the retirement of Dr. Jerry Lyall, who has served as director of the center since 1978.
Farrell, 53, holds a bachelor of science degree in physical education from Mars Hill College, and did post-graduate work before obtaining a doctorate in administration of special education from UNC-Chapel Hill.
Dr. Frank Farrell
He joined the O'Berry staff in 1975 as director of therapeutic recreation. Except for a six-month stint as acting director at Caswell Center in Kinston, he served O'Berry in several administrative positions before becoming assistant director.
"I'm excited about the opportunity," Farrell said. "I am excited about continuing the quality of services that we provide to families and staff."
Mike Moseley, director of the state Department of Health and Human Services, credited Lyall with being an innovative leader while at O'Berry.
"He has brought O'Berry Center to the high level of service quality the facility represents," Moseley said. "Dr. Lyall has been responsible for leading this center in achieving and maintaining ... certification and in continuously improving the living environment.
Moseley said Lyall's contributions to the center are widely acknowledged and added that he will be greatly missed.
Farrell has extensive experience in the field of developmental disabilities, Moseley said, as well as a vision for O'Berry's future.
"Dr. Frank Farrell fulfills those necessary requirements," Moseley said in announcing the appointment, adding that Farrell "brings a wealth of administrative experience, clinical program experience and an in-depth knowledge of O'Berry that is truly unique."
Farrell credited those who have supported him along the way, with a special nod to O'Berry's medical staff.
"O'Berry is a wonderful place and I look forward to continuing what we do here," he said.