Brad Turner was appointed in January 2019 by Gov. Bill Lee as the commissioner of the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.  He is the third person to serve in that role since DIDD became a standalone agency in 2011.

In his role as commissioner, Turner oversees nearly 2000 employees responsible for administration and oversight of services and supports for approximately 25,000 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through the home and community-based waiver programs, Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS), Katie Beckett Program, MAPs Program and Family Support Program.  

Under Turner’s leadership, DIDD launched the Tennessee Believes program to expand inclusive higher education opportunities across the state and the TN START Assessment and Stabilization Teams to increase support to persons with disabilities who have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis.  In addition, the department has been recognized nationally for its innovation in Employment First and Enabling Technology as a means to promote full access, inclusion and independence for people with disabilities. The department has also been recognized as the first state service delivery system to receive Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation from the Council on Quality and Leadership.

Turner sits on the National Association of State Director of Developmental Disabilities Services (NASDDDS) National Policy Work Group.

As the father of a daughter with intellectual and developmental disabilities that inspires him every day, Commissioner Turner is passionate about advocating alongside people with disabilities and their families. 

Prior to joining DIDD, Turner was the Director of Client Services at HealthStream Inc., and served as a Rutherford County Commissioner for eight years. 

Turner, his wife Rebecca, and daughter Kinsley are proud to call Smyrna home.