Debbie Miller to lead department's Interdependent Living program.

Effective April 1, Debbie Miller be heading the department's Interdependent Living program.

The program serves the older children in state custody, those who need to develop skills for a successful transition to adulthood.  Ms Miller will be responsible for implementing the Chafee program, as well as Fostering Connections and supporting youth through post-secondary education and/or trade schools.  A significant section of the Brian A. Settlement includes the Interdependent Living program. Strengthening and improving the IL program is critical to the department's ability to exiting the lawsuit.

In addition, Ms. Miller will be responsible for working on other special projects related to Education or Health as assigned by the Commissioner and the Deputy Commissioner of Protection and Permanency.

Ms. Miller has more than 30 years management experience in areas of public policy, child welfare, juvenile and criminal justice and grant administration.  She has extensive background in public policy issues which affect families and children with a strong commitment to evidence-based practice, family-centered services and consumer input.

Ms. Miller has proven leadership in guiding agencies and programs through transition. She is currently employed at Vanderbilt University as Director of Child and Family Policy Center. Previous employment includes Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, State of Tennessee Board of Paroles, Institute for Children’s Resources and Madison County Group Home.

Ms. Miller has a Master of Arts Degree in Teaching and postgraduate work in Administration and Supervision from the University of Memphis  and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Mississippi.

Community involvement includes Chair of the Davidson County Foster Care Review Boards 8 and 12; Board of Directors, Bethlehem Centers of Nashville;  Regional Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee; Board of Directors, Exchange Club Family Centers, and past involvement with the Tennessee Conference on Social Welfare, Adventure Science Center and Girl Scout Troop 76.