Virginia receives award; Kaine appoints Hopkins

Virginia receives award; Kaine appoints Hopkins

By Staff

May 12, 2008, 12:00 a.m. - The Virginia Disability Determination Services (DDS) has been honored with the Social Security Administration’s 2008 Commissioner Citation for its leadership in efficiently processing claims while controlling administrative costs throughout the state.

“Virginia has demonstrated a clear commitment to providing effective direction and management in keeping DDS medical costs at a minimum,” said Gov. Timothy M. Kaine. “Their hard work and accomplishments deserve to be recognized.'”

The award was presented at the National DDS Management Forum - a division of the Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services (DRS) - which took place April 29 - May 1 in New Orleans.

Kaine also last week announced the appointment of Raymond E. Hopkins of Alexandria, Va., to serve as the commissioner of the Virginia Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired, succeeding Joseph A. “Joe” Bowman, who will retire on July 1.

Hopkins has served with the Rehabilitation Services Administration of the United States Department of Education since 2004. He oversees and manages the Randolph-Sheppard Vending Facility Program. Hopkins previously served for more than nine years as Administrator of the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Program for the Blind and Visually Impaired, having started with that agency as a rehabilitation teacher of the blind in 1986.

“Ray Hopkins brings a wealth of training and experience in the field of rehabilitation of the blind and vision impaired,” Kaine said. “His expertise in policy interpretation, program development, strategic planning and performance management are the ideal attributes to continue the fine work of the department and its various initiatives.”