Wansley Walters Joins Ballard Partners' Tallahassee Office

Wansley Walters, former secretary of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, has gone to work for governmental affairs lobbyists Ballard Partners, according to a Ballard news release issued Wednesday.

According to the release, Walters will co-chair the firms public policy team with a strategic focus on children, youth and justice issues.

Wansley is a highly-respected voice in Florida government and shes a proven leader with a track record of success," said Brian Ballard, president of Ballard Partners. "We are excited to bring her level of expertise and knowledge to our clients and their issues.

Walters was appointed by Gov. Rick Scott in 2011 to serve as DJJ secretary. Ballard emphasizes that under her leadership, Florida saw the lowest juvenile crime rate in 30 years. Walters also currently serves as Scott's appointed chair of the Florida Children and Youth Cabinet.

It is an honor to join one of the most prestigious governmental affairs firms in Florida, said Walters. I have been an advocate for Floridas children and families my entire career and I look forward to continuing that work with Brian, his team and the clients at Ballard Partners.

Walters has presented at numerous state, national and international conferences on juvenile justice. She received the 2012 Juvenile Justice Without Borders International Award presented by the International Juvenile Justice Observatory during the International Youth Justice Convention in London.