Governor-elect Patrick Morrisey has appointed Alex Mayer as the new Secretary of the Department of Human Services. Mayer brings experience from South Dakota’s Department of Social Services, particularly in handling foster care issues. The department, established on January 1st of last year has already achieved several milestones including reducing overdose deaths by 36-percent. The agency reports significant improvements in child support collection and reduced vacancy rates in critical positions. Current Secretary Cynthia Persily says she’s proud of the groundwork laid for the new department.