BHA Welcomes Les Becker as Deputy Commissioner of Administration

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DENVER (June 2, 2025) – Bringing administrative and IT expertise to the next phase of systemic transformation, Colorado’s Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) is proud to announce that Les Becker, an Innovation and Technology expert with over 18 years of experience, is joining BHA from the Washington State Department of Health where he has served as Chief of Innovation and Technology since 2021.

Becker has led efforts in data, informatics, health technology services and innovation and project management, including strategic implementation of Washington State’s 988 systems. Prior to his role in Washington, Becker served as the Deputy Director of Harris County Public Health in Texas and holds a B.A. in Management and an MBA with a concentration in Finance from LeTourneau University.

“BHA is privileged to welcome Les as our agency continues to grow in its role as Colorado’s behavioral health authority,” said BHA Commissioner, Dannette R. Smith. “Les’ many years of government experience and expertise in the technology field will be an invaluable asset in BHA’s ongoing effort to center strong, reliable and easily accessible data in a high-quality behavioral health care system.”

“I am thrilled to be taking on this role at BHA, and to utilize my years of experience to ensure that all of the agency’s work in support of the people of Colorado is informed by data. This is work that is close to my heart and I look forward to the opportunity to join the ongoing effort to ensure that all people in Colorado have easy access to high-quality behavioral health care,” added Les Becker, BHA Deputy Commissioner of Administration.

Les’ leadership is grounded in collaboration and data-driven approaches to administration in this field. In his new role at BHA, Les will offer direction and leadership for our Operations, Behavioral Health Technology and Data, Financial Services, and Communications and Marketing teams.

The Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) is the state administration responsible for ensuring all people in Colorado have access to quality mental health and substance use disorder services, regardless of where they live, or ability to pay. As a regulatory body, BHA brings together community groups and governmental agencies to create a behavioral health system for all people in Colorado that is easy to access, and offers high-quality care that considers the whole person and their needs. Find us online at https://bha.colorado.gov/ or follow us on social media at @BHAConnect.