NASDDDS Board Elections

Brad Turner was appointed in January 2019 by Governor Bill Lee as the commissioner of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD). He is the third person to serve in that role since DIDD became a standalone agency in 2011. 

In his role as commissioner, Turner oversees approximately 1700 employees responsible for administration and oversight of community-based services for approximately 7,300 people with intellectual disabilities as well as 4,400 people through the Family Support Program. In addition, the department operates 37 4-person intermediate care facilities for people with intellectual disabilities, the Harold Jordan Center and seating and positioning clinics in each grand division along with a mobile clinic. His role as commissioner also includes oversight of services and supports for children through the Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS) and Katie Beckett Program. 

Under Turner, the department has been recognized nationally for its leadership in Employment First and Enabling Technology as a means to promote full access, inclusion and independence for people with disabilities. The department has also been recognized as the first state service delivery system to receive Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation from the Council on Quality and Leadership. 

As the father of a daughter with intellectual and developmental disabilities that inspires him every day, Commissioner Turner is passionate about advocating alongside people with disabilities and their families. 

Prior to joining DIDD, Turner was the Director of Client Services at HealthStream Inc., and served on the Rutherford County Commission for eight years. 

Turner, his wife Rebecca, and daughter Kinsley are proud to call Smyrna home. 

Brad Turner: Narrative