Governor Sam Brownback this week named Tim Keck as Interim Secretary of the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. Keck’s appointment follows the announced departure of KDADS Secretary Kari Bruffett on Dec. 31.

Keck has served as the deputy chief counsel at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) since 2011. He also serves as chief counsel for the office of the Lt. Governor. He received his Juris Doctorate from Washburn University in 1991.

Mr Keck is a former lawyer in Hiawatha, Kansas and was an active volunteer in Brown County.

“Tim Keck has previously volunteered his time working with the disability communities including serving on the board of directors for the Brown County Developmental Services, Inc.,” said Governor Brownback. “He has worked closely with leadership in both KDADS and KDHE to address issues that affect these communities.”

Governor Brownback also named Johnnie Goddard, a 30-year veteran of the Corrections systems, as interim Secretary for the Department of Corrections, following the Dec. 31 retirement of Secretary Ray Roberts after a 40-year career. Goddard began his Corrections career in 1985 as an officer trainee in 1985. He has held increasingly responsible positions within the department and has served as Deputy Secretary of Facilities Management for Corrections since early 2012.

“Johnnie Goddard is well respected throughout the Corrections system and will provide strong leadership during transition period,” said Governor Brownback. “His extensive experience in the system along with his team building skills make him an excellent choice to serve as interim secretary.”

Keck and Goddard will serve as interims beginning Jan. 1, 2016 and until the Governor appoints his nominees for KDADS and Corrections Secretaries.