Gerald Radke has been chosen as the Deputy Secretary for the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) for the state's Department of Public Welfare. Radke will be replacing Charles Curie, the current Deputy Secretary of OMHSAS, who is leaving to take a position as the Administrator of the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Radke had previously served the Commonwealth as Deputy of Medical Assistance in DPW for seven years during the Thornburgh administration and returned briefly in 1990-91 during Governor Casey's term. Most recently, Radke has been working in an executive capacity for the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill in Washington, DC. Mr. Radke is an MSW and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers.
Several former colleagues of Radke's applauded the appointment. Former PCPA Executive Director, Raymond R. Webb, Jr., emphasized that "No one in this country understands the Medical Assistance program like Jerry Radke."
"He is a wonderful manager and thoroughly understands integrated systems," noted Karen Snider, COO of Northwestern Human Services. "He is very approachable and accessible." Others noted Mr. Radke's strong commitment to consumer issues.
George Kimes, PCPA Executive Director, noted "We look forward to working with Jerry Radke. He will be a worthy successor to the progressive legacy that Charles Curie leaves."