Pages

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Commissioner Mayhew Announces Staffing Changes at DHHS

Martin, Wolcott bring experience, leadership skills to top posts 

AUGUSTA, Maine - Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Mary Mayhew on Wednesday announced that Jim Martin, Director of the Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS), has been named Director of the Office of Child and Family Services (OCFS).

"Jim is an outstanding leader who will inspire his staff to deliver the best care possible for the children who depend on OCFS," said Mayhew. "Under his direction, OCFS will make prevention a top priority in ensuring Maine's children are not subject to abuse and neglect. Jim is a true innovator in his current position and I am confident he will bring the same approach to OCFS."

Martin has worked for DHHS since 2008 and has developed a depth of knowledge and skill within
multiple program areas. He began his department career within OCFS as a Child Protective Caseworker in Androscoggin County. Overseeing 300 staff as OADS Director, Martin and his team developed strategic direction for services provided to elders and adults with brain injuries and intellectual and physical disabilities. He also oversaw evidence-based prevention programs and comprehensive home and community-based services. Martin received his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Southern Maine, earned a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of New England, and is a Licensed Masters Social Worker (LMSW).
In addition, Gary Wolcott, Associate Director for Care and Intervention at OADS, has been named Acting Director of OADS.

"I am confident in Gary's ability to oversee this important program, where he has already been instrumental in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of the services we provide to our elderly and disabled neighbors," said Mayhew. "Gary's vast experience will serve him well as he assumes this important role, which is so critical to the Department's mission of prioritizing and improving care for the most vulnerable elderly and disabled Mainers."

Over the past eight years, Wolcott has played prominent roles in the establishment of the Complex Case Team, the reform of Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR), and the development of two new Medicaid waivers. Wolcott started working for Maine DHHS as the Program Manager for Brain Injury Services in early 2007. Wolcott earned a Master's degree in Community Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern University in 1977 and has more than 35 years of experience creating community-based programs for persons with disabilities, working for New York ARC, the National Head Injury Foundation, Goodwill Industries, and as a consultant.

Martin and Wolcott will assume their new roles effective December 15.

No comments:

Post a Comment