Otis R. Bowen facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Otis Ray Bowen, M.D.
4th United States Secretary of Health and Human Services
In office December 13, 1985 – January 20, 1989
President	Ronald Reagan
Preceded by	Margaret Heckler
Succeeded by	Louis Wade Sullivan
44th Governor of Indiana
In office January 9, 1973 – January 13, 1981
Lieutenant	Robert D. Orr
Preceded by	Edgar Whitcomb
Succeeded by	Robert D. Orr
Personal details
Born	(1918-02-26)February 26, 1918 Fulton County, Indiana
Died	May 4, 2013(2013-05-04) (aged 95) Donaldson, Indiana
Political party	Republican
Spouse	Pearl Irene Wright
Children	4
Education	Valparaiso University
Profession	Physician

Otis R. Bowen (born February 26, 1918 – died May 4, 2013) was an important American leader. He was the Governor of Indiana for two terms, from 1973 to 1981. He was the first governor in Indiana to serve two terms in a row! Later, he worked for President Ronald Reagan as the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services. This means he helped make big decisions about health care for the whole country.

Early Life of Otis Bowen

Otis Bowen was born on a farm in Fulton County, Indiana. He grew up and started his family in Bremen, Indiana. Before becoming a politician, he worked as a doctor. This experience helped him understand people's health needs.

Key Moments as Governor

As governor, Otis Bowen faced many challenges. One important event happened in September 1973. There was a difficult situation at the Indiana State Prison. Some inmates had taken guards and other inmates hostage.

Governor Bowen made a brave decision to declare a "blanket amnesty." This meant he offered to forgive the inmates for their actions during the riot. This decision was very controversial at the time. However, it turned out to be the right choice. All the hostages were released safely without anyone getting hurt.

After this event, many positive changes happened in the Indiana Department of Corrections. These changes improved conditions for inmates and staff. They also made the system fairer and safer for everyone.

Later Career in Washington

After serving as governor, Otis Bowen continued his public service. He joined President Ronald Reagan's team in Washington, D.C. He became the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services in 1985. In this role, he helped shape health policies for the entire country. He worked to improve healthcare access and services for all Americans.

Death

Otis Bowen passed away on May 4, 2013, at his home in Donaldson, Indiana. He was 95 years old. He is remembered as a dedicated public servant who worked hard for the people of Indiana and the United States.

Images for kids

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  Bowen with President Gerald Ford in 1976

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  Bowen being sworn in as Secretary of Health and Human Services in 1985

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  Bowen at a community event in 2007