Dear Stakeholders,
I am pleased to share that Tonya Piephoff will transition to the Director for the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), effective June 16. Tonya has served as the Alton Mental Health Center (AMHC) Administrator for the last 6 years and has dedicated her career to serving individuals with developmental disabilities and mental illness.
A licensed clinical counselor, Tonya began her career as a case worker for individuals with intellectual disabilities. She has most recently served as the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital Administrator of the Alton Mental Health Center where she led the hospital through the COVID-19 pandemic and worked to meet the State's need for forensic beds through the Willow Hall expansion.
Before coming to IDHS, she served as Director of the Kentucky Division of Developmental Disabilities, and as the Chief Operating Officer of the Missouri Division of Developmental Disabilities. Tonya has over 20 years' experience in assisting individuals and their families to find the best living environment to meet their individual needs and goals.
I would like to also extend my gratitude and sincere appreciation to Sarah Myerscough-Mueller, who has served as Interim Director for the past 11 months. During this, she worked on the implementation of the Guidehouse rate study recommendations, including federal approval of 3 waiver amendments, advocated for legislation to expand stabilization homes in the community, and continues to provide leadership on transformation of the DD system. Sarah will provide ongoing support to DDD during this transition and will return to her role as Chief of Staff for the Division.
Please join me in congratulating Tonya! Together, I know we will advance IDHS' vision that all people in Illinois achieve their full potential.?
Grace B. Hou
Secretary
Illinois Department of Human Services
