500 E. Capitol Ave.

Pierre, SD 57501

(605) 773-3212

For Immediate Release: Friday, March 24, 2006

Contact: Mark Johnston at 605-773-3212

 

 

PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Mike Rounds announced today the selection of Jerry Hofer, Pierre, to be the next Secretary of the Department of Human Services.

 

“Jerry has been a leader in the Department of Health for many years and I am pleased that he has agreed to accept this new position,” said Gov. Rounds. “He has managed numerous issues that overlap both the Department of Health and the Department of Human Services. His experience and background will be very beneficial to the citizens served by the department.”

 

Hofer has been an employee of the State of South Dakota for eighteen years. He began his career with the Department of Social Services and has been with the Department of Health for the last seven years, serving as the Director of the Division of Administration. Hofer has been a Risk Pool Board member since the board’s inception and currently serves as Vice-chair.

 

Hofer graduated from the USD School of Business, with a degree in Business Administration. He and his wife, Karen Cremer, live in Pierre and have two children.

 

Hofer will begin his duties on April 10, 2006. He replaces Betty Oldenkamp, who left last month to become the President and CEO of Lutheran Social Services in Sioux Falls.

 

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