Governor Kim Reynolds announced in a press release on Wednesday that Jerry Foxhoven has been appointed as the new director of the Iowa Department of Human Services. Foxhoven began his role in the new position on Thursday. 

“I have spent my life defending and protecting the rights of others,” Foxhoven said in the press release. “To do so in this elevated position is a challenge I humbly accept. I look forward to building trust and relationships in all 99 counties, working on behalf of all Iowans as we work together to solve the challenges many Iowa families are facing each day.”

The press release also said that Foxhoven “began practicing law in 1977 with a strong emphasis on trial practice in criminal and civil law. He was also extensively involved in juvenile and family law cases until 2000 when he began as administrator for the Iowa Child Advocacy Board.”

A list of Foxhoven’s accomplishments and experience that make him a qualified candidate for the job was also listed in the release. Some of these accomplishments included, Board of Directors, Iowa Child Abuse Prevention Council, 2010-2015; Board of Directors, Iowa Friends of Foster Children Foundation, 1989-2002 (President, 1997, 1999-2002) and received “Champion for Children” award from Prevent Child Abuse Iowa, 2007. 

From what was included in the press release, Foxhoven seems not only qualified but dedicated to protecting Iowa children.

The director position was left vacant after Charles Palmer resigned on May 31, following the controversy of the recent deaths of two homeschooled girls.