(DES MOINES) - Gov. Terry E. Branstad today named Roxann Ryan the Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner. Ryan had been serving as acting commissioner of the department since Jan. 9, 2015, when Larry Noble retired. The appointment is effective immediately. A photo of Ryan can be found here.
"I am impressed with the leadership and depth of knowledge Roxann possess, both in her capacity as acting commissioner and throughout her career in public service," said Branstad. "Roxann's knowledge of the department, coupled with her commitment to protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of Iowans, makes her an ideal choice for the position."
"Since taking the helm as Iowa Department of Public Safety acting commissioner, Governor Branstad and I have seen firsthand the tireless work Roxann puts in to ensure Iowa's communities and citizens are safe and secure," said Iowa Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds. "We're pleased to have Roxann lead the Iowa Department of Public Safety."
Roxann Ryan earned a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from Iowa State University, a law degree from University of Iowa and a PhD in Criminal Justice from the University of Nebraska Omaha. Ryan served in the Iowa Attorney General's Office from 1980-2004 in the criminal division. Ryan joined the Iowa Department of Public Safety in 2006 has served as a criminal intelligence analyst, in-house counsel and administrative rules coordinator. Additionally, she taught criminal justice for two years at Simpson College.
Ryan's appointment is subject to Iowa Senate confirmation.
###
