The Murray Developmental Center has a new Center Director, but he’s a familiar face to many.
Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Wehking will begin the position on February first. The announcement is being made by the Illinois Deputy Director for State Operated Developmental Facilities Tiffany Bailey.
The President of the Murray Parents Association Rita Winkeler is very excited to see the former Murray Center employee return.
“I think everyone is very excited. We’ve known Jeff for a long time. Individuals who know that Jeff is coming are very excited. He worked as an activity therapist there for many years and they remember really good times with Jeff. He’s always been very concerned about individuals and got to know them as people. I think he will be an asset to Murray Center and has a lot of experience now with his work at the prison.”
Wehking is currently the Business Manager for the Centralia Correctional Center, where Bailey says he has successfully directed and supervised the daily operations of the fiscal and support services departments. Bailey, in an e-mail to Murray employees, says Wehking brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and compassion to this position.
Winkeler says Wehking was a huge part of the ‘Save Murray Center’ fight with the uncertain future of the facility leading to his decision to leave Murray for the prison.
Wehking replaces Lori Demijan who retired at the end of the year. She has a part-time contract to help with the transition.
