Change in leadership at Special Commitment Center on McNeil Island
Contact: Tyler Hemstreet, DSHS Media Relations, 564–201–0027
After serving for more than two years as the Special Commitment Center’s CEO, David Flynn has accepted a position with the Department of Corrections. During his time at SCC, Flynn led the center throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced the SCC budget by $1.7 million, strengthened relationships with community partners, and focused on improving the quality of treatment offered to SCC residents.
Keith Devos has been appointed SCC CEO, effective Nov. 1. Devos recently transitioned back to the Behavioral Health Administration as the civil residential treatment facilities administrator. Prior to that he served for two years in the Developmental Disabilities Administration as the assistant superintendent at Rainier School. In his role at the school, Devos was directly responsible for daily operations, admissions, treatment and transition services as well as CMS regulatory compliance.
“I am excited about the diversity of experiences and proven leadership that Keith will bring to the Special Commitment Center as the new CEO,” said Sjan Talbot, BHA deputy assistant secretary. “Keith comes to his new role well versed in all things SCC and McNeil Island.”
Prior to his position at Rainier School, Devos was an executive leader at SCC for four and a half years in both facility operations and community programs.
“As we strive to transform the lives of our residents, we must also continue to transform our culture to positively empower our staff to be the best they can be,” Devos said. “I’m excited to embrace that exact vision at SCC in my new role.”
Devos, a 25-year U.S. Army veteran, has a master’s degree in public administration, project management certification from University of Washington, and is a LEAN Six Sigma Black Belt.