Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services Secretary Janet Schalansky today announced that Jim Wann, Lawrence area director, has been appointed Acting Director of the Division of Services for the Blind.

Working with Candy Shively, deputy secretary of Integrated Service Delivery for SRS and with Dennis Rogers, director of Rehabilitation Services, Dr. Wann will serve as director while a national search is conducted to find a permanent director. He will also work closely with the Services for the Blind Advisory Committee. Dr. Wann takes over for Suzannah Erhart, who retired in September after 33 years of state service.

Dr. Wann, who holds advanced degrees, including a Doctorate of Ministry in organizational management, has spent 29 years in leadership positions within SRS, plus eight additional years in the Nebraska and Indiana social welfare systems. Besides directing the Lawrence Area Office for SRS, he has also served as the Area Director for the Kansas City Area and the former Osawatomie SRS Area.

Secretary Schalansky said Dr. Wann's experience and expertise made him the right person to fill the position until a permanent director can be chosen. The nationwide search will begin immediately, she said.

"Jim will provide leadership to this organizational component of SRS while a national search is conducted for a permanent director," Secretary Schalansky said. "His selection should tell stakeholders that SRS is committed to a high level of quality services for persons who are blind or visually impaired."

Using his management team in place in Lawrence, Dr. Wann will also continue to also maintain his position as area director. He indicated that management staff in Lawrence will take over some of his area director duties during the interim assignment.

Page Last Updated: May 29, 2001