Knodell and Nickelson named ‘full status’ directors of DSS, DHSS
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)
The Missouri governor’s office in a Thursday press release announced the promotion of two long-serving acting directors to “full status.”
Robert Knodell will be the director of the Department of Social Services, while Paula Nickelson will be the director of the Department of Health and Senior Services. Both promotions take effect Friday, according to the release.
Knodell has served as DSS acting director since Oct. 17, 2021. Previously, Knodell was a member of Gov. Mike Parson's senior staff, serving as Deputy Chief of Staff, a position he held from June 2018-October 2021. Knodell also served briefly, from April 2021-September 2021, as the Acting Director of DHSS
Nickelson was named the DHSS acting director on March 1, 2022.
Nickelson has served within DHSS for more than 23 years. Nickelson was also involved in the state's H1N1 response and planning efforts following the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, according ot the release.She helped establish the state’s first Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) warehouse and led the implementation of the state’s decontamination system for N95 masks.
"We have greatly enjoyed having Acting Directors Knodell's and Nickelson's perspectives in our Cabinet and have been extremely impressed with their leadership at DSS and DHSS," Parson said in a press release. "They have accomplished a lot for the state of Missouri. From improving customer service to helping bring an end to a pandemic, they work hard for the people of Missouri, and we're excited to announce them as full status Directors. We have much left to accomplish for Missourians, but with both of them in our Cabinet and on our team, we know we can get it done."
