August 9, 2006

Governor names corrections expert to ensure safety of Kansans
Sebelius appoints Patricia Biggs to Kansas Parole Board

Citing her experience with the Kansas Department of Corrections and Kansas Sentencing Commission, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has appointed Patricia Biggs to the Kansas Parole Board. 

“Protecting Kansans is one of my top responsibilities,” Governor Sebelius said.  “The Kansas Parole Board is tasked with that same mission as they seek to ensure the safety of Kansans when determining whether or not to grant parole.  Individuals on the board must be responsible, fair and always take into consideration the safety and security of Kansas residents.”

The Kansas Parole Board protects the public by making responsible decisions regarding whether and under what conditions/circumstances parole-eligible offenders are to be paroled.

Biggs, Topeka, has been the executive director of the Kansas Sentencing Commission since 2003.  Between 1996 and 2003, she was director of research and planning at the Kansas Department of Corrections.  Prior to that, Biggs was an economist in Washington, D.C., a financial analyst in Pennsylvania, an instructor at the University of Connecticut, and an adjunct professor at Washburn University and Friends University. 

For over three years, Biggs was a consultant with the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Institute of Corrections.  She is a recipient of Ad Astra, the Kansas Department of Corrections’ top quality management award. 

Biggs received her undergraduate degree from West Chester University and graduate degree from George Mason University.  She received her Doctor of Philosophy-ABD (All But Dissertation) in business administration-marketing from the University of Connecticut.

Biggs, whose appointment must be confirmed by the Senate, will serve a four-year term.  She replaces Marilyn Scafe on the board.

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