SRS Secretary Rochelle Chronister today announced that Teresa Markowitz, currently commissioner of Children & Family Services, was resigning her position effective January 2, 1999. Markowitz, an Olpe native and a Licensed Master Social Worker, has been responsible for child welfare services in Kansas since August 15, 1995.

Ms. Chronister called Markowitz "a courageous change agent and a dedicated child advocate. When we hired Teresa, she told me that she was an activist for change when that's what's needed, and she would lead the changes in Kansas, stabilize the process, then move on. That is exactly what she's done," Ms. Chronister said, "and we will miss her.

"In three short years, Teresa has helped create a privatized child welfare system which is the envy of many states, and -- more importantly -- is doing a better job of protecting Kansas children than the system before it," Ms. Chronister continued. "Adoptions were up 81 percent last year, family preservation services are now available statewide, and children in foster care are safer than ever before. Although there is more to be done," she said, "Teresa has put together a talented and dedicated team who will continue these efforts on behalf of Kansas kids."

Markowitz said she has always dreamed of going out on her own, and the time was right to try to start her own business. In a prepared announcement, she said, "I want to say thanks to all of you for a very memorable three years. I would not trade this experience for any other in my career. It has been a privilege learning the extent of your jobs and the commitment by which you do it. I consider it an honor to have been a part of it, if only for a short while. Thank you for your patience and tolerance. It was fantastic, and quite a journey."

Ms. Chronister said she has no timetable for announcing a new commissioner. She stressed that Teresa and her team would be on the job through the New Year, and that she plans to be deliberate in seeking the next commissioner.

"We always knew that Teresa would be leaving sooner rather than later," Ms. Chronister said, "but we're thankful we had her here for even a short while. Fortunately, Kansans will still have access to her many talents and experience, although in a different fashion. Our best wishes to her for the future."

Page Last Updated: May 29, 2001