Culver appoints new human rights director

Gov. Chet Culver is replacing Walter Reed Jr. as director of the Iowa Department of Human Rights, and has instead appointed him to the Iowa Board of Parole.

Preston Daniels, former mayor of Des Moines, will take over as the human rights director, Culver's office announced in a news release Friday afternoon.

Both appointments begin May 1, and must first gain approval from the Iowa Senate.

"Walter brings two essential qualities to the board - a commitment to justice, and an understanding of state government. I couldn't ask for a more qualified appointee," Culver said in a statement announcing the switch.

Culver spokesman Phil Roeder said the governor wanted the best team in place to direct departments in his administration.

"The governor is confident that both appointments add to the strength of his administration and put the best people in the right positions," Roeder said in a written statement.

Reed was first appointed director of the human rights department in 2005 and previously served 10 years as executive director for the city of Waterloo's Commission on Human Rights

Daniels, his replacement, served as mayor of Des Moines from 1997 to 2004. He currently serves as program director for Employee and Family Resources in Des Moines.