Dear Colleagues, After six years as Director of the Florida Institute for Child Welfare, I decided the timing is right for me to make a transition while the organization identifies its next leader. During my time at the Institute, our team has accomplished far more than we expected. It’s exciting to have led such a committed and adaptive group of people. We have prioritized quality and effective partnerships across the state, which has been integral to the Institute’s success. Through recent 2020 legislation, Chapter No. 2020-152 (Senate Bill 1326), we know that what lies ahead for the future of the workforce is exciting. Though, with a field that is often unpredictable and governed by policies and procedures with competing priorities, creating a long-term vision of sustainability presents some challenges. Even so, the Institute has worked collaboratively with system partners to build a clear and compelling vision. This vision revolves around the implementation of an adaptive approach to preparation and recruitment, professional support and well-being, and organizational and leadership capacity. As Director, I have endeavored to lead with a vision that is clear, directional, yet also mindful not to add pressure or restraint on a child welfare workforce that is already overburdened. I believe we have been successful, and I am also assured there is more meaningful change to be accomplished. I will continue my commitment to child welfare and will remain as a faculty member at the FSU College of Social Work. I will also remain connected to the Institute’s ongoing work, in particular the GROW Center’s Alliance for Workforce Enhancement (AWE) initiative. Being the Director of the Institute has been a dream, a privilege. It’s been an exceptional experience for me as a leader to work on systemic change efforts at my alma mater and in my home state. I am excited to remain engaged and to see what is next for the Institute! Thank you for your support – it has meant a lot to me.
Jessica Pryce