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Approve and present a plaque of appreciation honoring Suzanne Kiesz, Social Services Supervisor, upon her retirement from the Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Child Welfare Services with over 24 years of dedicated public service in child welfare, with 12 years serving in Solano County (Chair Vasquez)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No __X_
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No __X_
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Department of Health and Social Services recommends that the Board approve and present a plaque of appreciation honoring Suzanne Kiesz, Social Services Supervisor, upon her retirement from the Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Child Welfare Services with over 24 years of dedicated public service in child welfare, with 12 years serving in Solano County.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Suzanne Kiesz began her career with Solano County on October 30, 2006, when she was hired as a Social Services Supervisor for Staff Development and Training in the Child Welfare Services Division.
Ms. Kiesz has provided significant contributions to the County’s Child Welfare Services, including developing the social worker training program for Child Welfare Services, serving as a trainer for new and continuing employees, supervising the Adoptions Unit, and serving as the champion on permanency and concurrent planning for children where family reunification was not possible. During her eight-year tenure with the Adoption Program, Ms. Kiesz supervised adoption finalizations for 308 children and 99 children into guardianship.
Throughout Ms. Kiesz’s career with Solano County, she has shown commitment and dedication as an advocate for permanency, an educator of peers and staff, and a voice for the voiceless. Ms. Kiesz has provided optimal services over the years to children and youth striving to ensure that their past traumas do not serve as barriers for their futures. Ms. Kiesz embodies the values and principles of social work and is described as patient, caring, supportive, and inspirational.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost associated with preparing the agenda item is nominal and absorbed by the Department’s FY2018/19 Adopted Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the plaque is included in the Board’s FY2018/19 Adopted Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to approve a plaque honoring Suzanne Kiesz. This is not recommended as this is an opportunity to recognize Ms. Kiesz’s dedication and contribution to the County.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION