Management Changes Happening at ORS

Effective July 31, 2026

Management Changes

Retiring:  Message from Joseph Murphy, Associate Director

I want to inform the residents of Rhode Island that as of Friday, July 31, 2026, I am retiring from State Service.  I will be leaving my position here at ORS as Associate Director, and Karen Davis will be taking over.  I began my career here at ORS in 2001, first as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, making my way through up through the ranks to be Supervisor, Assistant Administrator, Administrator, and ultimately for the past several years, to lead the Agency.  It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have worked at ORS this past 25 years and almost 2 months.  Over the course of my years (decades!) here, I certainly can say that the services that I and my team have provided to individuals with disabilities has made significant direct and positive impacts. To my colleagues and coworkers at ORS, we have made a great team!  As I leave ORS, thank you, this has been an honor.

Promotions:  

Karen Davis, Associate Director

Barbara Mulligan, Administrator of Vocational Rehabilitation Services