EAGLE TIMES STAFF
Waterbury, Vt. — Agency of Human Services Secretary Jenney Samuelson has announced that Monica White, Commissioner of the Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), has decided to step down from her role. Her last day will be Friday, Jan. 12. White has served as Commissioner since March of 2021.
“It has been an extraordinary honor to serve as DAIL’s Commissioner. My decision to step down was made after considerable deliberation and is what is best for my family at this time,” said Commissioner White. “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the phenomenal team at DAIL for the past nearly three years, and I am confident that our department, alongside its many valued community partners, will continue forth in our shared commitment to make Vermont the best state in which to grow old or to live with a disability — with dignity, respect, and independence.”
“Commissioner White played an integral role in the pandemic, working to address issues affecting older Vermonters, ensuring the safety of assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, and stabilizing many health care providers. Her work was an important component of Vermont’s leading pandemic response,” said Secretary Samuelson. “Through her time at DAIL, she has shown compassion and dedication to the individuals served by the Department, often sitting with clients facing challenging circumstances. I appreciate her compassion and service to Vermonters.”
DAIL Deputy Commissioner Megan Tierney-Ward will serve as Acting Commissioner until a new Commissioner is appointed. Tierney-Ward has been a steady presence at DAIL for over 25 years, most recently as the Deputy Commissioner for the last four years. Her prior roles include the Director of the Adult Services Division and the Program Manager for the State’s Choices for Care program.
The Agency of Human Services and DAIL have begun a search for a new DAIL Commissioner. Interested candidates will find details and can apply at https://careers.vermont.gov/ or by emailing a cover letter and resume to [email protected].
Secretary Samuelson, AHS staff, and especially DAIL staff, wish Commissioner White well in her future endeavors and appreciate Megan Tierney-Ward stepping in.
As your daily newspaper, we are committed to providing you with important local news coverage for Sullivan County and the surrounding areas.