Michigan Department of Health, Human Services Announces Appointment of Two Deputy Directors

LANSING, Mich., Dec. 19 -- The Michigan Department of Human Services issued the following news release:

A pair of experienced leaders have been picked to head policy and aging services for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Matt Lori, who has more than 35 years of experience in public service in a variety of capacities, will be senior deputy director of the Policy, Planning and Legislative Services Administration for MDHHS. Richard Kline, who has nearly 20 years of experience serving seniors, will be senior deputy director of the department's Aging & Adult Services Agency. Both had been serving in those capacities on an acting basis.

"Matt and Richard are both dedicated and highly respected individuals whose careers have been committed to protecting the health and safety of Michigan residents," said Nick Lyon, director of MDHHS. "I am confident that their leadership and vision will keep Michigan a national leader in health and human services innovation, improving outcomes for Michigan residents for years to come."

Lori will oversee Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Health Policy and Innovation, Legislative and Constituent Services and the Office of Planning, which includes the innovative Pathways to Potential that places caseworkers in schools and at other community locations to remove barriers to success and the Certificate of Need program that ensures only necessary services are developed by health facilities in Michigan.

Lori brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served most recently as MDHHS health care reform administrator - helping to improve and innovate Michigan's health care delivery systems. Prior to his work with MDHHS, he was elected three times to represent the 59th District in the Michigan House. Lori's career also includes 29 years in law enforcement. He served 20 years as the sheriff for St. Joseph County.

Lori is a resident of Constantine. He replaces Elizabeth Hertel, who recently left the department to become the director of state advocacy for Livonia-based Trinity Health.

As deputy director of the Aging & Adult Services Agency, Kline will oversee an agency that provides statewide leadership, direction and resources to support Michigan's aging, adult services and disability networks - with the aim of helping residents live with dignity and purpose.

Kline came to MDHHS in February after previously serving as executive director of All Seasons of Rochester Hills, a senior living community. He has lectured on financial management and long-term care organizational theory as an adjunct instructor at Grand Valley and Ferris state universities. His career includes serving as executive director of the Chelsea Retirement Community and Covenant Retirement Communities in Grand Rapids, where he also was health care administrator. He previously served as the health care administrator for HRC Manor Care, a nursing care facility in Grand Rapids, and has held other managerial roles in Michigan hospitals.

Kline is a resident of Grand Rapids. He replaces Kari Sederburg, who left the department to accept a new job with the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.

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