West Texas Centers names Rodney Jones new CEO

BIG SPRING West Texas Centers Deputy Executive Officer Rodney Jones was named Monday as the new Chief Executive Officer for West Texas Centers — the agency that provides community behavioral health services and care for people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Jones succeeds long-time West Texas Centers CEO Shelley Smith, who retired July 12 after nearly 40 years at the helm of the agency.

Jones — a longtime employee — was announced as the new CEO in a formal announcement from West Texas Centers Chairman Van L. York.

In his letter of announcement, York wrote “After careful consideration and evaluation, we are thrilled to announce the hiring of Rodney Jones to the position of CEO, effective July 15, 2024.

“Rodney has been an integral part of our organization since its inception, and his dedication and contributions have been invaluable. Rodney has served in many different capacities including Deputy CEO for the past five years.”

“His deep understanding of our Center, combined with his strategic vision and leadership skills, make him the ideal candidate to lead us forward.”

“During his tenure, Rodney has demonstrated a commitment to West Texas Centers through his many achievements and initiatives, he has championed. His passion for our West Texas Centers mission, vision and values is evident in everything he does.”

Jones said he plans to carry on the strong beliefs and work ethic blazed by Smith, his long-time mentor.

“I look forward to continuing in the same selfless manner carved out by Shelley and the WTC team. I have worked alongside her for many years and will continue to follow the strong leadership and vision that she provided. I look forward to providing a high level of care for our customers and their families and being a supportive leader to our dedicated staff.”

Jones served as Deputy CEO for the past five years and prior to that position, he served in several positions, including Chief Developmental Health Officer.

“My heart and my conscience are and always has been with our consumers and providing the best possible lives for them. We have a dedicated staff and I’m looking forward to getting out and visiting with them one-on-one during this transition.”

“They are instrumental in carrying out our mission, and I want to hear from them and learn from them.”

West Texas Centers employs close to 300 employees who provide care for 2,200 people a month with mental health and intellectual and developmental disabilities in 23 counties in rural West Texas.

West Texas Centers also offers the Little Lives Early Childhood Intervention program, based in Sweetwater.

Counties served by West Texas Centers are: Andrews, Borden, Crane, Dawson, Fisher, Gaines, Garza, Glasscock, Howard, Kent, Loving, Martin, Mitchell, Nolan, Reeves, Runnels, Scurry, Terrell, Terry, Upton, Ward, Winkler and Yoakum.