Gov. Nixon names Peter Lyskowski acting director of the Department of Health and Senior Services

Statement

Gov. Jay Nixon today announced he has named Peter Lyskowski as acting director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, effective October 19, following the announcement of Missouri Department of Mental Health Director Mark Stringer that current DHSS Director Gail Vasterling will be joining that department's senior leadership team as general counsel.

"Peter is a highly capable public servant with a wealth of experience on issues involving public health and wellbeing,"Gov. Nixon said. "Not only was he an effective Deputy Director of that department, he also worked closely from the Governor's Office with Gail on coordinating the state's response to protect Missourians from the Ebola virus in 2014. Missourians can be confident in a seamless transition of highly competent leadership at the top of this vital agency."

Lyskowski, currently Deputy Chief of Staff in the Office of the Governor, has served in a number of senior leadership positions in the administration, including as Deputy Director of the Department of Health and Senior Services, as Deputy Director of the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and as Acting Director of the Division of Workers' Compensation. He began his public service as an Assistant Attorney General for the state of Missouri. A native of Jefferson City, Lyskowski earned his bachelor's degree from Truman State University and law degree from the University of Missouri.

"From protecting seniors from abuse and neglect to keeping children safe from disease, Gail has done outstanding work to make Missouri healthier, safer and stronger," said Gov. Nixon. "I appreciate Gail's accomplishments during her tenure with the Department of Health and Senior Services, and wish her well as she continues to serve the people of Missouri at the Department of Mental Health."

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