WASHINGTON – Dr. John A. Gauss has submitted his resignation as the Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology (IT) in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
"Dr. Gauss has brought new life and direction to VA's IT program," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi. "He has laid the groundwork for VA to stand as an innovator in information technology."
Gauss was nominated for his current position on July 17, 2001, after retiring from the Navy as a rear admiral and commander of the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command.
"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve in a leadership capacity for the past two years," Gauss said. "I'm honored to be a part of an organization that puts veterans first. We have built an enterprise architecture that everyone can be proud of. More importantly, we have made great progress in turning that architecture into reality."
Gauss directs the operation and maintenance of all VA information technology. During his tenure Gauss developed a plan that streamlined and modernized VA’s information technology. He also assisted VA in achieving significant improvement in IT security.
As the assistant secretary for IT, Gauss serves as the department’s chief information officer, advising the Secretary on all matters pertaining to IT systems acquisition and management. He is responsible for overseeing operation of VA’s computer systems and telecommunication networks for medical information, veterans’ benefits payments, life insurance programs and financial management systems.
