LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (January 20, 2015)‐‐The Arkansas Department of Information Systems (DIS) is pleased to announce that Mark Myers has been named by Governor Asa Hutchinson to join DIS as its agency director effective Monday, January 19, 2015.

Myers previously served as director of strategic initiatives at the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office. He holds a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and a postgraduate certificate in security, stability and development in complex operations from the Naval Post‐Graduate School.

“I’m proud to join Governor Hutchinson’s cabinet as state chief technology officer (CTO) and director of the Department of Information Systems,” Myers said. “I believe DIS is one of the most dynamic agencies in state government. I am honored join an agency that has provided technology services and solutions to better serve the citizens of Arkansas for over 38‐years.”

In addition to serving as agency director and CTO, Myers will also become the Arkansas state broadband manager. This designation was approved by the Arkansas Legislature in 2013. The state broadband manager is responsible to promote, develop, and coordinate broadband expansion and appropriate broadband infrastructure for all areas of the state.

DIS employs information technology professionals specializing in data center and hosting; management of the state network; cyber security, continuity of operations and disaster recovery, desktop support, cloud services, database administration, project management, applications management and development and other core facets of technology. The agency also employs professionals with other knowledge and skill sets including enterprise architecture, legal, communications, customer relationship management, project management, financial management, human resources, and others.

“Today’s technology is rapidly changing and it is heavily influencing how state governments across the nation are interacting and engaging with citizens. I look forward to working with the employees at DIS and being involved in the great things we will accomplish together on the state’s behalf,” he added. “I am also eager to establish positive business partnerships with the state agencies, boards, commissions, and the education and public safety communities the agency serves. Additionally, I hope to encourage greater discussion and collaboration with the private sector in all facets of technology.”

Myers serves as a Major in the United States Army Reserves with two deployments to Iraq and one deployment to Afghanistan. He commands the 318th Tactical Psychological Operations Company. He has received two Bronze Stars, three Army Commendation Medals, and several other military awards. Myers is married to Kristen Kibler Myers and they have three sons: Chip, Nicholas, and Henry.