The New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) announced the appointment of Paula Morgan as the Chief Information Officer and Information Technology Division (ITD) Director. Paula Morgan, who has been serving in this role on an acting basis for nearly a year, brings over 30 years of experience in information technology across various sectors.
Delving into Morgan's rich professional background, Paula Morgan joined HSD in June 2022 as Deputy CIO and, with a career spanning over 30 years in Information Technology across public, private, and educational sectors, she previously served as Deputy CIO for the NM Department of Health, leading COVID-19 technology initiatives. Starting her state government career in 2013, Morgan has held various roles including IT Public Health Applications Manager. She holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in information systems from the University of New Mexico.
Upon taking up her new role, Ms. Morgan expressed both pride and anticipation. "I am honored and excited to serve as the Chief Information Officer and be part of such a dedicated team," said Paula Morgan, Chief Information Officer and Information Technology Division Director, according to a press release by HSD. "The technology transformation HSD is currently undergoing will continue to enhance our department’s ability to positively impact the lives of so many New Mexicans every day."
Morgan's leadership abilities were also praised by Kari Armijo, cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Human Services Department. "HSD is fortunate to have an experienced and capable director to lead our information technology initiatives at the Human Services Department," said Kari Armijo, cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Human Services Department, according to a press release by HSD. "Paula Morgan is driven by innovation, passion and determination to serve the people of New Mexico and we are fortunate to have her as a leader at HSD."
The department's work scope and budget, which Morgan will be overseeing, is quite substantial. The department manages a substantial budget of around $7 billion, serving over 800,000 low-income individuals through various programs such as Behavioral Health Services, Child Support Enforcement, and Medicaid. Administered through four Program Divisions, HSD collaborates extensively, playing a vital role in the NM Behavioral Health Collaborative and addressing behavioral health issues across state agencies according to the HSD website.