Raimondo Issues Call for Applications for Cabinet-Level Veterans Affairs Director

Published on Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Applications due November 6, 2015

CRANSTON, R.I. – Governor Gina M. Raimondo and Human Services Director Melba Depeña Affigneinvite all qualified individuals to submit an application for the new Cabinet-level position of Director of the Division of Veterans Affairs.

This new position, which was created by statute in 2011, was funded for the first time in Raimondo’s FY16 budget. The director will report directly to Depeña Affigne in the Department of Human Services, which is part of Rhode Island’s Executive Office of Health and Human Services. Per Rhode Island General Law § 30-17.1-6, an applicant must have sufficient experience and training and be an honorably discharged war Veteran of the United States armed forces.

“In August, I gathered with Veterans, service members and military families to hear their perspective on the qualities the new Director of Veterans Affairs should possess,” said Raimondo. “My father was a World War II Navy Veteran, and it is important to me to listen to those who serve and have served our nation as we look to identify a leader who can best expand opportunity for these community members. I look forward to reviewing the applications and encourage all qualified Veterans to apply.”

“This is a position of great honor and responsibility,” said Depeña Affigne. “Our Veterans have made untold sacrifices on our behalf, and we owe it to them to provide high-quality, well-coordinated services. Along with the other members of our Executive Office of Health and Human Services leadership team, I look forward to bringing a new leader on board who will strengthen the Division of Veterans Affairs and enhance the services available to Veterans, service members and military families.”

Qualified applicants must complete an application online and submit a resume and a cover letter describing their interest in the position and satisfaction of the state statutory qualifications. The 2resume and cover letter should be emailed to Eric J. Beane, the Governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff (eric.beane@governor.ri.gov), and Andrea Iannazzi, Special Counsel to the Governor (andrea.iannazzi@governor.ri.gov), no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2015. Any questions should be directed to Andrea Iannazzi at the above e-mail address or at (401) 222-8117.

The Division of Veterans Affairs serves eligible Rhode Island Veterans, their surviving spouses and dependents. Benefits include a comprehensive program of social, medical and rehabilitative services for Veterans in need of skilled nursing care at the Rhode Island Veterans Home; burial at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery; and resource assistance through the Rhode Island Veterans Affairs Office. Some benefits are also available to Veterans' spouses and dependents.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sophie O’Connell-EOHHS

401-462-0854(office)

401-275-3738(cell)

Sophie.OConnell@ohhs.ri.gov