Burns-Wallace joined the state’s department of administration in June 2019, adding the chief information technology officer role in August as the replacement for Lee Allen, who served in that role for just more than a year.
Since her appointment, Burns-Wallace has overseen various efforts, including launching a standardized Statewide Learning and Talent Management System; the state’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative; and the Women in State Employment (WISE) affinity group.
She also oversaw the continuity of state operations and the governor’s Office of Recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic, which was responsible for administering federal COVID-19 relief funds.
“Dr. Burns-Wallace has been a singular force in my administration for ensuring the delivery of high-quality government services to Kansans,” Kelly said in a release. “From modernizing the state’s IT infrastructure to advancing key projects like the Docking State Office Building and the KDHE Health and Environment Laboratory, she has been a consistent source of leadership and excellence.”
According to the statement from the governor’s office, Burns-Wallace will be returning to teaching in the spring.
“It has been the greatest honor to serve under Gov. Laura Kelly. Her leadership enabled the Department of Administration and the Office of Information Technology Services to thrive under very difficult circumstances. When state government works well, the citizens of Kansas all benefit. That was my job, to make it all work well,” said Burns-Wallace in the press release. “It is also a credit to the wonderful staff of the Department of Administration and the Office of Information Technology Services that we have maintained a high level of service to Kansans. I know they will continue to make Kansas proud. Thank you to each and every one of my team members.”
Kelly anticipates naming new appointees to both roles in the coming weeks.
