Appointed Secretary of Aging in January 2006, Kathy Greenlee brings years of public service experience to the job, including on aging issues.
As Secretary, she heads a cabinet-level agency dedicated to improving the security, dignity and independence of Kansas seniors. KDOA has more than 200 full-time staff members and a total budget of $450 million. The agency is responsible for administration of Older American’s Act programs, distribution of Medicaid long-term care payments and regulation of nursing home licensure and survey processes.
The Secretary also participates on a number of interagency boards and committees, including the Health and Human Services Cabinet Team, the Kansas Health Policy Authority Board of Directors and the Workforce Network of Kansas board.
Prior to becoming Secretary, Ms. Greenlee served as State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. She also was an Assistant Secretary of Aging for a short time, with the responsibilities of legislative liaison and chief budget officer.
Her association with Governor Sebelius began in the Insurance Commissioner’s office, where Ms. Greenlee served as General Counsel and led the team of regulators who evaluated the proposed sale of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Kansas and also oversaw the Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas program (SHICK), which now is part of the Department on Aging.
After Sebelius’ election as Governor, Ms. Greenlee served as her Chief of Staff and Chief of Operations.
She is a graduate of the University of Kansas with degrees in business administration and law.