LANSING - Michigan Department of Human Services (DHS) director Marianne Udow has announced the appointment of Shaun Culp of Hastings as director of the Branch/Hillsdale DHS effective January 16, 2006.

"Shaun has demonstrated strong leadership skills throughout his 14 years as a department employee," Udow said. "I’m confident that, as director of the Branch/Hillsdale DHS, he will continue to provide quality leadership."

As director of the Branch/Hillsdale DHS, Culp will be responsible for administering federal cash assistance and food assistance programs, as well as child welfare and adult services programs.

Culp is a graduate of the University of Michigan and the 2002 DHS Leadership Academy. He is married and is the father of three children.