Richmond, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin is pleased to announce the appointment of Banci Tewolde as the new Director of the Virginia Department of General Services (DGS), starting June 25, 2024. Ms. Tewolde, currently the Associate Director at the Virginia Department of Planning and Budget, is celebrated for her considerable experience and expertise in public service, positioning her as an ideal leader for the DGS.
“Banci Tewolde’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication to public service make her the ideal choice to lead the Virginia Department of General Services. Her proven track record in managing complex projects and her deep understanding of government operations will be invaluable as we strive to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our state services. I am confident that under her leadership, the DGS will continue to uphold the highest standards of excellence, ensuring that our infrastructure and services meet the needs of all Virginians,” Governor Glenn Youngkin remarked.
With over two decades of service in various roles within Virginia state government, Ms. Tewolde’s journey in public service is distinguished and multifaceted. Her comprehensive knowledge of state government operations, along her expertise in legislative and budget processes, has equipped her with the unique qualifications needed to oversee the DGS effectively.
Ms. Tewolde’s career highlights include her initial appointment by Governor McDonnell to manage statewide prisoner reentry efforts, followed by her role as Deputy Secretary of Public Safety. During her tenure as an Assistant Attorney General, she represented officials, state employees, and agencies in both state and federal courts. Her responsibilities included reviewing contracts, leases, and procurement processes, providing her with intricate insights into the workings of state-level operations.
Moreover, her experience extends beyond the state of Virginia. As an Attorney Advisor for the Federal Bureau of Prisons and an adjunct faculty member at Pennsylvania State University, she has developed a robust understanding of public safety and legal matters, further enhancing her leadership capabilities.
In her most recent role as Associate Director with the Virginia Department of Planning and Budget, Ms. Tewolde was instrumental in managing the budget, capital development, and execution activities for all state public safety agencies in the Commonwealth. Her collaborative efforts with other state agencies have significantly contributed to the enhancement of public safety operations across Virginia.
Educationally, Ms. Tewolde is well-prepared for her new role; she holds a JD from the University of Maryland School of Law and a Master’s degree from Old Dominion University. Her educational background, combined with her extensive experience, makes her a formidable leader for the DGS.
As Ms. Tewolde prepares to take on her role as Director, her wealth of experience and her strategic vision for public service are expected to drive significant improvements and innovations in the Virginia Department of General Services. The Commonwealth anticipates great strides in service efficiency and effectiveness under her leadership, ensuring that the needs of all Virginians are met with the highest standards of excellence.
