Stewart Appointed Deputy

DHHS has a new deputy secretary. Dan Stewart, who has served as assistant secretary for 16 months, will take on the new duties Sept. 1. In making the appointment, Secretary Carmen Hooker Odom said Stewart has shown that is he is a strong leader. “Dan is a perfect fit for this position,” said Hooker Odom. “I am absolutely committed to strong leadership at the helm of this department, and Dan is a very strong leader with a track record for getting the job done.”

Stewart, who has almost 30 years service in state government, said he was pleased with the new position. He said he will continue to focus on three areas – making the department’s operation as seamless as possible, increasing the level of accountability, and increasing efficiency. “That’s my basic philosophy – seamlessness, accountability and efficiency,” he said.

Stewart has enjoyed his time in state government. “I’ve had the opportunity to grow into this position, having worked at all levels of state government,” he said, “so I really do understand employee issues at all levels.” He plans to continue working in state government for several more years.

Stewart is a native North Carolinian who grew up near Four Oaks. He attended N.C. State University, received a BBA from Emory University, and is a certified public accountant. He and his wife Debbie live in southern Wake County with their sons David, 16, and Jonathan, 15. They also have a daughter, Amy, and two grandsons, Brett and Tyler.

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Last Modified: September 1, 2006