TOPEKA – Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services Secretary Laura Howard announced today that the agency has appointed Kathy Stiffler, Ph.D., to serve as superintendent at Kansas Neurological Institute effective March 28.
Stiffler will join KNI after a 10-year role as senior vice president for adult services with the Capper Foundation in Topeka where she directed all supports for adults with developmental disabilities across three Kansas counties. She has 40 years of experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities that includes time at Norton State Hospital, her own agency serving individuals in the Topeka area and seven years as a unit director and qualified intellectual disability professional at KNI from 1990 to 1997.
“Kathy is a skilled supervisor and manager committed to person-centered services and supports and we’re confident her experience over the years will enhance the lives of the individuals living at KNI and the effectiveness of the programs at the hospital,” said Scott Brunner, KDADS Deputy Secretary for Hospitals and Facilities. “We’re excited to have her return to KNI to serve as superintendent.”
Stiffler earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder, in 1981, a master's in management at Baker University in 1995, and a doctor of philosophy in organization and management from Capella University in 2007.
The announcement comes after Superintendent Brent Widick announced his retirement late last year and Acting Superintendent Barney Hubert was named to lead the hospital until a permanent replacement was found. Acting Superintendent Hubert will continue in that role until April 8 to assist in the transition.