HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson today announced the appointment of Linda Penn as the Secretary's Regional Representative for Region VI, based in Dallas.

In her new position, Penn will be the Secretary's direct representative responsible for guidance and coordination of HHS policies in the region. The area includes the states of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

"Linda Penn will be a valuable resource to the HHS community," Secretary Thompson said. "Her leadership experience and unique mix of skills will serve to further the region's many vital health programs and initiatives."

Since 1992, Penn worked in the HHS regional office as a Head Start early childhood education specialist within the Administration for Children and Families. During her tenure, Penn worked with then-Governor George W. Bush and Laura Bush to implement the Texas Head Start Educational Component Grant Program, an initiative resulting in the state's first funding commitment to Head Start programs in Texas.

Prior to joining HHS, Penn served as field office staff for U.S. Senator Phil Gramm, later to become the East Texas Regional Manager.

For several years, Penn has volunteered her time and attention to several community and educational organizations, such as the Parent & Teacher Association, Girl Scouts of America, Toastmasters International and Young Homemakers of Texas.

Penn is a Home Economics Department Outstanding Alumni from East Texas State University, where she earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in home economics.

She assumes the Regional Representative post today.