Governor Markell Announces Nomination of Patrice Gilliam-Johnson, Ph.D. to Serve as Secretary of Labor

 

Dover, DE — Governor Markell announced today the nomination of respected educator and human resources expert Patrice Gilliam-Johnson, Ph.D. to serve as Delaware’s next Secretary of Labor.Patrice

For more than a decade, Dr. Gilliam-Johnson has served as Chairperson of Wilmington University’s Organization Dynamics Program.  In that capacity, she has helped prepare thousands of students for careers through instruction in the social and psychological elements of organizational behavior, leadership, motivation, workplace performance, and management.  Prior to entering academia in 1997, Dr. Gilliam-Johnson was a consultant providing training and consultation relating to workplace competency skills, employee selection, assessment and performance evaluation systems, and grievance procedures.  Prior to that time, Dr. Gilliam-Johnson gained a critical understanding of how organizations and governments can prepare employees for growth while serving in various roles with the Drug Enforcement Administration, the District of Columbia Courts, and the U.S. Department of Labor.

“Patrice’s experience and background coupled with her strong work ethic, dedication to underserved communities, and her passion for public service will make her a strong Labor Secretary if confirmed,” said Governor Jack Markell. “I am confident that Patrice’s understanding of people and how best to support them and their organizations will allow her to help build a stronger workforce in Delaware.”

Dr. Gilliam-Johnson received her Bachelors in Psychology from Morgan State University, and her Masters and Doctorate in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at the University of Maryland. She currently resides in Wilmington.  Dr. Gilliam-Johnson is active in the community, including as President of the Gilliam Foundation.  She has served as a board member or volunteer with the Delaware Community Foundation, the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League, and Communities in Schools.  If confirmed by the Senate, Dr. Gilliam-Johnson would fill the vacancy created by the retirement of John McMahon.

“I am honored to have been nominated by Governor Markell to serve as Secretary of Labor,” said Gilliam-Johnson. “The Department has a hugely important role connecting people with the training and resources they need to get good jobs.  If confirmed by the Senate, I look forward to helping them with this vitally important work.”

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