Department of Workforce Development

Friday, January 24, 2003 Governor Jim Doyle Secretary Roberta Gassman

News Media Contact Christopher Marschman 608/261-6705 e-mail: news@dwd.state.wi.us fax: 608/266-1784

Madison – Department of Workforce Development Secretary Roberta Gassman today announced the appointment of JoAnna Richard, Executive Assistant; Charlene Dwyer, Vocational Rehabilitation Division Administrator; and William R. Clingan, Unemployment Insurance Division Administrator.

"I am pleased to announce the selection of these three fine individuals to the management team at the Department of Workforce Development," Secretary Gassman said. "The challenges before us, including a looming budget deficit, will require strong leaders who can make difficult decisions. These are three people I can count on for the leadership we need."

JoAnna Richard came to DWD from the Office of the Attorney General where she served as Legislative Liaison since 1999. In her role there she was the policy and budget analyst and advisor to the Attorney General on matters pending before the state legislature. She also has experience in public policy work for the State Assembly, Senate and in the private sector.

Richard earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh, where she graduated with honors.

Charlene Dwyer has 26 years of experience in the development and provision of services to persons with disabilities and a demonstrated ability in program administration. Prior to this appointment, Ms. Dwyer also held the Administrator’s post for Vocational Rehabilitation, which she was appointed to in July 2001. Her success in managing a staff of 300, an annual budget in excess of $50 million, and the respect she garnered in the disabled community earned her a re-appointment according to Secretary Gassman.

Dwyer earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree, Master of Arts Degree and Doctorate in Education, all with honors, from Northern Illinois University.

William R. Clingan, the new Unemployment Insurance division administrator, comes to DWD with more than 20 years of experience in employment and training related programs. For the past five years, Mr. Clingan served as Dane County Community Resources Planner. Before that he served three years as Dane County Employment and Training Coordinator. The Unemployment Insurance Division has an annual budget of $74 million and a staff of 653.

Clingan has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Secondary Education and a Master of Public Policy and Administration, both from the University of Wisconsin.

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