Dane County Executive Melissa Agard Appoints Amy Everett as Director of Human Services

January 22, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive

MADISON, WI – Dane County Executive Melissa Agard is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Everett as the new Director of the Dane County Department of Human Services. Everett brings a wealth of experience in behavioral health and human services administration, which will be instrumental as she prepares to lead the county's largest department.

 

Amy Everett most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Operations at Mind Springs Health and West Springs Hospital in Grand Junction, Colorado. In this role, she managed 11 executives overseeing 525 employees with a $68 million budget. Her prior experience includes various roles at the Colorado Department of Human Services' Office of Behavioral Health, culminating as the Associate Director of Adult Treatment and Recovery from 2017 to 2022. Everett holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Minnesota State University-Mankato.

 

"I am thrilled to welcome Amy Everett to Dane County as our new Director of Human Services," said County Executive Agard. "Her extensive background in behavioral health and her proven leadership abilities will be invaluable as we continue to provide essential services to our community. I am confident that Amy will lead our Department of Human Services with dedication and vision."

 

County Executive Agard also expressed gratitude to Astra Iheukumere for her service as Interim Director of Human Services. Iheukumere has been with the department since 2019, serving as Deputy Director before stepping into the interim role.

 

"Astra navigated the department through significant transitions with grace and effectiveness. I am grateful for her contributions and look forward to her continued impact within our community," stated Agard.

 

About the Dane County Department of Human Services:

The Dane County Department of Human Services oversees a wide range of services aimed at enhancing the well-being of county residents, including mental health services, support for individuals with disabilities, and programs for children and families. With an annual budget of approximately $313 million, the department works collaboratively with community partners to deliver essential services.