The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) is pleased to announce the following leadership changes in the Division of Developmental Disabilities effective Thursday, February 16, 2017. 

Ronald “Ron” F. Wakefield has been appointed director of the division.  He brings an impressive background of more than 30 years in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities in both institutions and community services, and most recently served as DBHDD’s director of field operations for the division.  Ron is a proven leader and has been successful working with the people we serve, as well as family members, providers, and public officials.  His many years of experience have uniquely positioned him for this new leadership role.  

Lori L. Campbell, LCSW, has been appointed assistant director of the division.  She has more than 20 years of experience with a large provider serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Georgia.  Lori’s knowledge, skills, and leadership abilities as a provider will benefit DBHDD as our organization continues to support more individuals in the community and promote positive relationships with our provider network. 

Audrey Sumner, MSW, has been appointed director of field operations for the division.  She has 35 years of experience in the fields of behavioral health and intellectual and developmental disabilities, working with both DBHDD and our community service boards.  Audrey’s work as a regional coordinator, and more recently managing the intellectual and developmental disability crisis service system, provides her with the knowledge and experience necessary for success in her new position.

We also want to take this opportunity to thank Dan Howell for his contributions as director of the Division of Developmental Disabilities over the past three years during what has been a critical time for DBHDD and Georgia.  Dan will continue to work with our team during this period of transition. 

Please join us in congratulating and wishing continued success for Ron and Audrey in their new roles, and in welcoming Lori to the DBHDD team.