Incoming Maryland Governor Names Katie Savage as New CIO

Last week, Maryland Gov.-elect Wes Moore announced several cabinet appointments, including that of Katie Savage as the state's secretary of information technology.

Savage brings extensive technology experience, including leading the Defense Digital Service within the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD). Prior to that, she was director of operations and services at the City Tech Collaborative with the city of Chicago.

While at DOD, she helped lead the COVID-19 response, including the development of an emergency communication software toolkit. She also developed a digital employment verification tool to support the visa application process for Afghan refugees and families applying for U.S. asylum on behalf of the State Department and DOD. With City Tech, she helped the city of Chicago improve digital government offerings. She also served as a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in Malawi from 2008-2010.

The announcement follows Michael Leahy’s departure from the role, which he took in an acting capacity in 2017 before permanently taking over as CIO in 2018.

“Today, I’m proud to announce the addition of these incredibly experienced and diverse leaders,” Moore said in the announcement, referring to the appointment of Savage and others.

The other appointments announced Friday include Russell Strickland as secretary of emergency management; Carolyn Scruggs as secretary of public safety/corrections; and Harold “Bud” Frank as deputy chief of staff of public safety and homeland security.