December 18, 2024   

JEFFERSON CITY, MO — Today, Governor-Elect Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Jessica (Jess) Bax as Director of the Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS). Bax will assume the role of DSS Director effective January 13, 2025, and await Missouri Senate confirmation.

“Jess brings valuable experience working with state and local agencies and successfully building partnerships with stakeholders to this role,” said Governor-Elect Kehoe. “With her extensive knowledge of social service programs, the budget and legislative process, and her passion for providing quality service to the people of Missouri, I am confident she will bring excellent leadership to the Department of Social Services.”

Bax currently serves as the Director of the Division of Developmental Disabilities for the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH).

Prior to joining the Department of Mental Health, Bax served for three years as the Director of the Division of Senior and Disability Services for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, with responsibility for Medicaid Home and Community Based Services, Adult Protective Services, and Older Americans Act programs. She has nearly 20 years of government and leadership experience, including serving as the Constituent Services Manager, Bureau Chief of Medicaid Long Term Services and Supports, and Deputy Division Director for Senior and Disability Services. She currently serves as a National Board Member for ADvancing States.

“I am humbled at the opportunity to serve in the Kehoe Administration and the people of Missouri in this capacity,” Jess Bax said. “I look forward to working on streamlining operations, program integrity, and incorporating national best practices to help all Missourians have access to the tools they need to be safe and healthy.”  

Bax holds a master’s degree in Public Affairs from the Harry S. Truman School of Public Affairs at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She and her husband, Brian, have five daughters and reside in St. Elizabeth, Missouri.

The Office of Governor-Elect will continue to announce Cabinet member appointments in the coming weeks. Those interested in serving in the Kehoe Administration may visit Governor-Elect.mo.gov to submit an application to serve in the administration or on a board or commission.

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