DHS: Currans-Sheehan appointed executive assistant

CONTACT:  Seth Boffeli, Communications Director, 608-266-1683

Today, Department of Health Services Secretary Karen Timberlake announced that Rachel Currans-Sheehan has been appointed to serve as Executive Assistant, effective January 11, 2010.

“Rachel has been a vital part of our Department from her work within our Medicaid program and in her role as our Legislative Liaison,” said Secretary Timberlake. “Her expertise in health care policy and strong management background will enable her to continue to serve the people of our state effectively and professionally in this new role.”

Currans-Sheehan most recently served as the Department’s Legislative Liaison, where she was responsible for helping advance key initiatives including BadgerCare Plus, Family Care, SeniorCare, and public health improvements. 

Previously, Currans-Sheehan served in policy and management positions within the Medicaid program with responsibilities in disability and elder services, managed care, and budget analysis.  Currans-Sheehan was an integral part of the team responsible for developing and implementing the BadgerCare Plus Core Plan for Adults With No Dependent Children and Medicaid pay-for-performance quality improvement initiatives.

Prior to joining the Department of Health Services, Currans-Sheehan worked in Washington, D.C. as Deputy Director of Wal-Mart Watch and as Assistant to the Executive Director at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

Currans-Sheehan received her Masters Degree in Public Policy Studies from the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy and her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and History from the College of St. Catherine, in St. Paul, MN.

As Executive Assistant, Currans-Sheehan will oversee external relations for the Secretary’s Office and serve as a top policy advisor to Secretary Timberlake and Deputy Secretary Mark Thomas on legislative and policy matters. She replaces Rea Holmes, who left the Department earlier this month to return to practicing law in Washington, D.C.