On Monday, January 20, 2003, Governor Dirk Kempthorne appointed former Ada County Commissioner Roger Simmons as the new executive director for the Idaho Lottery. Simmons comes to the Lottery with myriad accomplishments and vast experience in leadership positions. Interim Director Steve Woodall returns to his post as Deputy Director. 

“Roger has demonstrated an ability to manage and think creatively,” Governor Kempthorne said. 

In addition to his most recent responsibilities as a commissioner from 1993 to present, Simmons has served as the chairman and board member of several associations including the Community Planning Association, the Idaho Association of Counties and the National Association of Counties Economic Development Subcommittee. 

His prior experience also includes general manager of the Western Idaho Fair in Boise and reporter for KTVB-Channel 7 in Boise, where he earned more than 50 awards for investigative reporting. 

“I hope to bring to the Lottery the same innovative approach that resulted in a number of accomplishments during my tenures at both the Western Idaho Fair and the Ada County Commission,” Simmons said. “I feel I have a great deal to offer to an already successful organization.” 

An extensive political, marketing and media background will make Simmons enormously valuable in the position. The Idaho Lottery staff is thrilled to work this leader.