Bowman, who recently was promoted from the community based services role to Deputy Secretary, tapped Milner as his replacement. Bowman stepped into his new role when former Juvenile Services head Terri Williams departed for a position in the private sector.

Milner has served since August 2012 as Deputy Superintendent at the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex. Previously, Milner worked from 2008 to 2012 in the central office of the juvenile services provider. She has worked in the corrections field since 2000.

"Those of us who have worked with Megan over the years know her to be intelligent, experienced and knowledgeable of evidence-based practices and programs," Bowman said. "Megan is dedicated to the youth we serve, and to the public, which is safer through her efforts."

Milner received a Master's of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Cincinnati in April 2014, and graduated the Certified Public Manager Program through the University of Kansas in December 2016.

Milner will begin the transition from her current role to the director position in the central office of KDOC on May 22.