For Immediate Release
February 19, 2024
For more information contact:
Cara Sloan-Ramos
Director of Communications
TOPEKA – Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) Secretary Laura Howard announced today she has appointed David Anderson to serve as commissioner for the agency’s newly formed Aging Services Commission.
The Aging Services team, now a separate entity from the Long-Term Services and Supports Commission, reflects the agency's commitment to addressing the needs and challenges of the state's aging population with more focus and energy.
“David Anderson comes to KDADS with more than three decades of experience in behavioral health services, building community partnerships, and leading effective teams,” KDADS Secretary Laura Howard said. “We look to him to work with various community partners to create shared goals and outcomes.”
Anderson is a licensed behavioral health provider who spent the last 36 years at High Plains Mental Health Center in Hays, starting as a service provider and later holding various leadership positions. He has also been an adjunct faculty member at Fort Hays State University's psychology department for many years.
Over the years, Anderson has served on numerous statewide committees and boards. He was appointed by Governor Laura Kelly in 2019 to serve on the Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board, where he currently serves as vice chair.
“I am very excited about this new position and the opportunity to continue to serve people,” KDADS Aging Services Commissioner Anderson said. “I look forward to traveling across the state and engaging with local communities, partners, and stakeholders in meaningful dialogue and planning to create positive movement and lasting change.”
Anderson grew up in Winfield, Kansas, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southwestern College. He moved to western Kansas in 1985 to attend Fort Hays State University, where he earned a master’s degree in clinical psychology.