(Des Moines, Iowa) Governor Kim Reynolds is appointing Steve Lukan as Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs executive director.
Lukan is currently the director of the Governor’s Office of Drug Control Policy. He's also a former state lawmaker, serving from 2003 to 2012, and served four years in the Navy.
He replaces Jodi Tymeson, who announced her retirement last month.
Lukan is a former state representative, serving Iowa House District 32 from 2003-12. From 2008-12, he assisted in guiding the House Republican Caucus as assistant leader.
During Lukan’s time in the Iowa House, he also chaired the House Economic Development Appropriations Committee, championed the creation of the House Veterans Affairs Committee and enacted legislation to help disabled veterans through establishment of the Veterans Trust Fund.
Lukan served four years in the U.S. Navy, earning four promotions and obtaining the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class. He was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and Navy Achievement Medal.
“I am humbled and honored to serve the brave men and women of our armed forces in this way,” Lukan said. “They have given excellence in their service, and excellence in fulfilling the mission of the Department of Veterans Affairs will be our goal.”
“Steve is a proven champion of Iowa veterans,” Gov. Reynolds said. “He used his time in public office to make veterans’ issues a priority. He showed them they matter to our state and play an important role in our society. I appreciate Steve’s passionate advocacy and am confident in his ability to ensure Iowa veterans receive the benefits they deserve.”
Lukan’s appointment is effective immediately. Dale Woolery will serve as interim director of the Office of Drug Control Policy.