Gov. Perry Names Witt Director of Disaster Recovery and Renewal

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced Ellen Witt to replace Brian Newby as director of the Division of Disaster Recovery and Renewal within the Office of the Governor.  The division will provide support for the Governor’s Commission for Disaster Recovery and Renewal, which is an advisory panel of public and private sector experts that will guide the state’s long-term recovery and renewal efforts in the wake of the devastating 2008 hurricane season.  The division will also continue working with local officials to help ensure communities are optimally positioned to rebuild after future catastrophic events.

Witt previously served as deputy attorney general for legal counsel in the Office of the Attorney General of Texas, where she advised state, county and municipal officials on diverse legal issues.  She also served as general counsel for the Texas Department of Agriculture.  Witt also brings experience in residential construction. 

She earned a bachelor’s degree and a law degree from The University of Texas.