HARRISBURG — Hollidaysburg native Sam Dunkle has been hired as Blair County’s court administrator.

Dunkle, who has been the commandant at the Hollidaysburg Veterans’ Home, is slated to begin his new job on Jan. 16, filling a vacancy created last year when Court Administrator Nicole Smith resigned for another job.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sam to the Blair County Court Administration team,” President Judge Wade A. Kagarise said in a statement released by the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.

“We look forward to leveraging his expertise and leadership skills as he assumes the responsibilities of district court administrator. His background and dedication to service position him as a valuable addition to the county’s judicial system,” Kagarise said.

As court administrator, Dunkle will be responsible for supervising and managing daily court operations and the minor judiciary, with a focus on implementing policies to optimize court operations, according to the statement.

As the commandant at the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, Dunkle managed a 424-bed long-term care facility providing skilled and personal care for military veterans and their spouses.

In addition to his state and community service, Dunkle is a retired member of the Army, where he earned the rank of lieutenant colonel.

As an infantry and intelligence officer, Dunkle displayed valor and dedication during active duty in combat zones, receiving numerous accolades for his exemplary service.