DHHS names acting mental health head
By From staff reports
Published in News on July 13, 2012 1:46 PM
N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Al Delia announced today the appointment of Jim Jarrard as acting director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse Services, effective immediately. Jarrard has been deputy director of the division since October 2010 and worked closely with Division Director Steve Jordan, who was killed last week in a bicycle crash.
"The Department suffered a devastating loss with Steve's death and we will miss his energy and passion for mental health services and the people we serve," Delia said in a written statement. "Jim Jarrard is a knowledgeable and respected leader who I am confident will continue to lead the Division in a positive direction."
Jarrard has been with the Division of MH/DD/SAS since 1994, serving in a variety of roles. Prior to becoming deputy director, Jarrard was chief of the Resource and Regulatory Management Section, which is responsible for fiscal monitoring, accountability, and regulatory compliance, support of information technology and contracts management. He also served as a team lead for accountability.
"Our division is a great model of resiliency for the consumers we serve," Jarrard said in a written statement. "We have a duty to keep the focus on our mission to protect the health, safety and well-being of all North Carolinians. I look forward to continuing our positive and productive relationships with community advocates, partners and providers."