Governor Rounds Announces New DOT Secretary

Governor Rounds Announces New DOT Secretary

Gov. Mike Rounds announced today the selection of Judy Payne, Secretary, of the South Dakota Department of Transportation. Payne will succeed Denny Landguth who announced his retirement earlier this year.

"Judy and has a proven track record of sound fiscal and administrative management," said Gov. Rounds on the announcement. "Her business and financial management expertise will be a tremendous asset to the employees of the DOT, and citizens of South Dakota."

Payne has served as the risk manager for the State of South Dakota since 1987. Beginning in 1981 she served as the Deputy Secretary and later Secretary of the Department of Revenue; leading more than 200 employees. From 1971 to 1981, she worked in the business office of Wenk Foods in Madison, S.D.

Originally from Madison, S.D., Payne graduated with honors from Dakota State University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She and her husband, Dennis Doerr, reside in Pierre and have five grown daughters.

Payne will begin her new duties April 4, 2005.

http://www.state.sd.us/governor/