May 28, 2008

Michigan Department of Human Services Director Ismael Ahmed today announced the appointment of Dawn McLaughlin of Kingsley as director of the Grand Traverse/Leelanau County DHS effective June 2, 2008.

"Dawn has demonstrated significant administrative skills and has extensive experience in children's foster care, child protection, juvenile justice and other areas," Ahmed said. "I am confident that, as director of the dual Grand Traverse/Leelanau offices, she will continue to provide quality leadership."

As Grand Traverse/Leelanau DHS director, McLaughlin will be responsible for the administration of federal cash assistance programs, as well as child and adult services including protective services, adoption services and foster care services.

McLaughlin has been a DHS employee for 22 years and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in behavioral psychology and a Master of Arts degree in counseling psychology, both from Western Michigan University. She is married and the mother of three children.

For more information go to www.michigan.gov/dhs