David C. Toland, Kansas commerce secretary, was sworn in as lieutenant governor today in Topeka.
Toland will continue as commerce secretary while also serving as lieutenant governor.
“There’s no doubt about it, this is a great day for Kansas,” Gov. Laura Kelly said. “As secretary of commerce, David has spearheaded efforts to provide critical assistance for small businesses and rebuilt programs within the department that make Kansas competitive on a global scale when it comes to business recruitment. He is a smart and dynamic leader, and is ready to step up on day one to help our administration drive our economic recovery and keep Kansans healthy.”
He has served as secretary of commerce since January 2019. Toland succeeds former Lt. Gov. Lynn Rogers. Rogers was appointed state treasurer and was sworn in on Monday to fill the position vacated by Jake LaTurner, who was elected to the U.S. House. Rogers has more than 30 years of experience as a banker in private business.
Before becoming commerce secretary, Toland was the chief executive officer of Thrive Allen County, a nonprofit working to improve economic conditions and life in Allen County.
During a speech, Toland said Kansas had $2.5 billion in new capital investment this past year, the highest number in its 30-year history.
“I’m honored, excited and so very humbled to be Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary working alongside Governor Kelly as she continues to rebuild our state and create a healthier, brighter and more prosperous future for all Kansans,” Lt. Gov. Toland said. “I am sincerely grateful for Governor Kelly’s strong, steady quest to keep people safe and healthy, and help businesses and our communities recover and move forward. We will continue to work in a bipartisan, collaborative way on Kansas-specific strategies and solutions for the people of Kansas and the future of our state.”