Gov. Pat Quinn names new agency leader

Michelle Saddler to head Department of Human Services; Dr. Carol Adams to serve as Illinois representative to Africa

[October 12, 2009]  CHICAGO -- Gov. Pat Quinn has named Michelle Saddler, director of policy for the Quinn administration, as secretary of the Illinois Department of Human Services. In addition, Quinn named Carol Adams, who served as DHS secretary for the past six years, as Illinois representative to Africa.

"It is a pleasure to appoint these two experienced professionals to these important positions," the governor said. "Both will bring a deep sense of commitment and great vigor to their new roles as they continue to serve the people of Illinois."

Before being named policy chief for the Quinn administration, Saddler held a number of key management and policy positions, including being director of investments with then-Illinois Treasurer Pat Quinn. Saddler earned her bachelor's degree from Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and a master's degree in management from Northwestern University's J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management. (Background on Saddler)

One of the state's largest agencies, the Department of Human Services provides integrated services for individuals, families and communities with regard to community health and prevention, developmental disabilities, mental health, rehabilitation services, and alcoholism and substance abuse, among others.

"I am honored to serve in this distinguished position at the Department of Human Services," said Saddler. "The department is vital to ensuring our citizens receive the care and support they deserve."

Adams will serve as the Illinois representative to Africa within the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity's Office of Trade and Investment. Her position is effective Jan. 1, 2010. Until then, she will serve as senior adviser to the governor.

"It has been an honor to be a public servant to the people of Illinois over the past six years," Adams said. "This next step is a culmination of my lifelong work and dedication to the development and advancement of Africa and to enhance Illinois' presence in the global community."

She earned her bachelor's degree in sociology from Fisk University and a master's in sociology from Boston University. She did her doctorate work in sociology at the University of Chicago and completed her dissertation at The Union Graduate School. (Background on Adams)

The Office of Trade and Investment provides a variety of programs designed to help Illinois companies locate distribution channels for their products and services in foreign markets.

[Text from news release from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]