Debra Payne, Interim Deputy Commissioner
The newly appointed Interim Deputy Commissioner for the Division of Intellectual Disabilities Services, Debra Payne is a veteran state employee with over thirty years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities.
Her career began in 1977 at Cloverbottom Developmental Center in Nashville. During her 12 year tenure, Mrs. Payne served in several capacities including Direct Support Professional, Behavior Therapist, & Director of Habilitative Services.
In 1989, Mrs. Payne joined the Quality Assurance survey team for the Division of Mental Retardation Services (DMRS) Middle Tennessee Regional Office (MTRO). During her tenure at the MTRO, she served as Residential Services Case Manager and Coordinator, as an Investigator, and as Director of Operations.
In 2000, Mrs. Payne accepted the position of Administrative Director for Volunteers of America of Tennessee (VOA), a provider agency contracted with the DMRS. VOA is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to helping persons live healthy, safe, and productive lives.
Mrs. Payne was recruited in 2004 & offered the position of DMRS Statewide Director of Protection from Harm. Within two years, she assembled a Protection from Harm system which is still recognized as one of the top operations in the country.
Debra Payne holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology/Criminal Justice from Middle Tennessee State University.
