Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has tapped youth justice authority Heidi Mueller to lead the state's Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), it was announced Wednesday. Mueller will assume the top post at DCFS on February 1, a move that follows her appreciated tenure at the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ), according to Illinois state government's press release.
In her time as Director of the DJJ, Mueller was lauded for pioneering reforms and her commitment to advocating for at-risk young people. Taking note of her experience, Governor Pritzker expressed confidence in Mueller's capabilities, "The work Director Mueller has done at the Department of Juvenile Justice over the last several years has been transformative for the juvenile justice system in Illinois, and I am thrilled that she will bring her unique experience and talents to DCFS," the Governor remarked. The outgoing DCFS Director, Marc D. Smith, plans to work through January for a smooth transition, having announced his departure last October after four years in charge.
Mueller, who's been at the helm of DJJ since 2016, is known for the 21st Century Illinois Transformation Plan, which aimed to overhaul the care given to youth in the state's custody by reducing institutional harms and enhancing restorative, community-based support. In response to her new role, Mueller expressed a deep sense of duty, "I am honored and humbled to be entrusted by Governor Pritzker with the responsibility of leading DCFS," she said. At DJJ, Mueller earned a reputation for community focus and for addressing the systemic issues within the juvenile system.
As Mueller steps up to lead DCFS, Robert Vickery is set to become interim director of DJJ, where he has been the Deputy Director of Programs since 2016. In supporting Mueller's appointment, Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton stressed Mueller's dedication, "Director Mueller has proven to be a tireless advocate for the well-being of Illinois' youth through her work at the Department of Juvenile Justice. That passion will serve her well as leader of DCFS," she specified. State representatives and senators alike have echoed the sentiment, welcoming Mueller's leadership and Z commitment to foster positive outcomes for Illinois children.
The Illinois Collaboration on Youth, through CEO Andrea Durbin, also endorsed Mueller, citing her long-term dedication to understanding and resolving the causes that bring juveniles into the justice system. Durbin emphasized Mueller's grasp of the importance of investing in youth, "Director Mueller understands the importance of investing in young people, their families, and communities so they can thrive."
