Today Governor Gary R. Herbert named Ann Silverberg Williamson the executive director of the Utah Department of Human Services. Williamson was the top candidate to emerge from a nationwide search to replace retiring executive director Palmer DePaulis. Williamson has been serving as the President and CEO of Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
“I am pleased to nominate Ann Williamson to serve as the next Executive Director of Utah’s Department of Human Services. Ann has a record as a visionary leader, an effective administrator, and, most important, a compassionate and caring person,” said the Governor. “She is well-suited to lead our Human Services team as they provide much-needed services for our most vulnerable citizens.”
“I consider it an honor to answer the call in the realm of human services, in which I have spent my career, both in government and the private sector,” Williamson said. “I eagerly look forward to becoming a citizen of Utah and to working on a dynamic team dedicated to the common good.”
As president and CEO, Williamson has overseen LANO as it advocates for the nonprofit community focused on strengthening the effectiveness of groups and individuals to improve the lives of Louisianans throughout the state.
“Nothing is closer to my heart than helping people find the opportunity and the tools to improve their lives,” Williamson said.
Prior to LANO, Williamson was the Cabinet Secretary for Louisiana’s Department of Social Services from 2004 to 2008. Previously she served as a business retention specialist at the Memphis Center City Commission and a policy analyst in the State of Louisiana’s Office of the Governor.
In 2012, Williamson was recognized by the Nonprofit Times as a Top 50 Nonprofit Leader of Power and Influence. She received her master’s degree in social work from Louisiana State University in 1998, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in theology from Wofford College.
Williamson is expected to take her post early November 2013.
