The Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD) is pleased to welcome a new Director and Deputy Director.

Melissa Smith, who previously served as the Deputy Director of the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities, has been named as DSAAPD’s new Director.  She assumed her new role on January 11, 2021.

Melissa has served the State of Delaware in various capacities within the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) for the past 16 years, including as Planning Supervisor and Long Term Care Planner in DSAAPD, and Deputy Director and Director of Planning at the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health. Before joining DHSS, she served as an Analyst with the Government Accountability Office and as an Analyst with the Office of Inspector General in the U.S. Department of Justice. Smith earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Delaware and a Master’s Degree in Urban Affairs and Public Policy.

Melissa is a fervent advocate for person-centered care and has spent much of her state career working to advance person-centered principles in services provided to Delawareans. She also has a strong government planning and analyst background that will complement her years of experience in the Department. She will continue the work of the Division to meet the challenges of linking Delaware’s rapidly expanding aging population and growing number of adults with disabilities with the services and supports that they need to thrive in Delaware during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

Melissa replaces Dava Newnam, who is now serving as Director of the Division of Management Services.

Brian Bayley, who previously served as the Administrator of the Meals on Wheels program, has been named as DSAAPD's new Deputy Director. He assumed his new role on March 1, 2021.

Brian has served DSAAPD in a variety of roles within Provider Relations, including the lead for Adult Day, Money Management, Medical Transportation, the Senior Community Service Employment Program, and other community services.  Over the past three years Brian served as Administrator of the Meals on Wheels program, which has enjoyed tremendous success and growth.

Brian has been instrumental in the COVID-19 response efforts with our community partners and is a member of the DHSS Vaccine Distribution Workgroup, which has been leveraging solutions for access challenges among the people we serve. Prior to joining the public sector, Brian enjoyed an extensive background as a Director in the healthcare industry. Brian is very much looking forward to helping DSAAPD grow forward.