Two months from today, the state will have a new Governor and DCF will have a new Commissioner. This past summer I began thinking
about my future and concluded that I would not seek to be reappointed by Governor Mallcy's successor. I want to be very clear that my
decision, which came after much soul searching, is not a reflection of how difficult or challenging the job is or out of concern that the new
Governor would say ?thanks, but no thanks." The job is indeed challenging and difficult. It has also been incredibly rewarding. The
Department has received national recognition on a variety of fronts, and we have a great deal to be very proud of. The system is not
perfect and by no means have we been perfect; a child welfare agency is but one part of a very complex and taxed child welfare system.
But I digress.

I made the decision to not seek reappointment because I strongly believe that the Department needs a honeymoon phase. You know that
phase-when each of you thinks the other person is fantastic and everything is new, fresh and exciting!! I certainly had the benefit of a
very long one -4 years to be precise, when we got major legislation passed, changed practice and garnered great support and much good
will at the LOB. Since then, there certainly have been pockets of support, our good work has continued, our practice shifts have grown
strong roots, the Governor and 0PM secretary have remained very supportive and the Federal Court has been hugely complimentary but
a new Commissioner will have hisfher own chance to feel that welcome and appreciation for hisiher willingness to oversee what has been
often termed ?by far, the most difficult job in state government." That good will absolutely will trickle down to all of you and the Department
as a whole?the secondary beneficiaries of the honeymoon!!

This is not my last missive. I will continue to report out on all our progress, new and improved policy, etc. So for the next two months, my
foot remains on the pedal and my fingers on my keyboard.

jk