MOUNT VERNON — Matthew Kurtz was named director of Knox County’s Department of Job & Family Services on Monday by the county’s board of commissioners. Kurtz has served as interim director of the agency since the retirement of Roger Shooter last fall. His appointment is effective May 1.

“It’s always satisfying to feel that your hard work is acknowledged,” Kurtz said, adding that he was humbled by the trust placed in him by the commissioners and by the gravity of the task before him.

“It’s important,” Kurtz said. “The lives of children and families in the community are affected by the decisions we make.”