Karen E. Kimsey
Director, Virginia Deparment of Medical Assistance Services
Karen Kimsey was appointed Director of the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). Karen is an accomplished executive with over 24 years of public service with the state Medicaid program. Prior to her appointment, Karen served as Chief Deputy and Deputy Director of Complex Care and Services for DMAS. She led the successful development and operationalization of the new Medicaid Expansion benefit for low-income adults and the Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus program, the creation of a new addiction and treatment benefit for individuals with substance use disorders, the redesign and implementation of the system that serves individuals with developmental disabilities, and the launch of the Governor’s Access Plan to serve individuals with serious mental illness. Karen holds Bachelor and Master of Social Work degrees as well as a Certificate in Aging Studies. She is the proud mom of her sons, Evan and Andrew, and enjoys staying active through yoga.