Gov. Perry Names Bithos Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry has appointed George Bithos of Austin as Independent Ombudsman for State Supported Living Centers (SSLC) for a term to expire June 11, 2011.

Bithos is an ordained deacon of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. He is past executive director of the Texas Conference of Churches and a past member of the Greater Dallas Community Mayor’s Task Force on Youth. Bithos received a bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University, a doctorate of dental surgery from Baylor College of Dentistry, and a doctorate of Theology from the University of Durham in England.

The Office of the Independent Ombudsman was established by SB 643 in the 81st Legislative Session, as part of emergency reforms to provide more oversight and protection for residents of SSLCs. The ombudsman assists residents, families and advocates with concerns about SSLCs, and advocates to the Department of Aging and Disability Services on their behalf.