The State of New Jersey is saying farewell to a wonderful public servant, with Department of Human Services Commissioner Jennifer Velez announcing today that she will step down from the post she has held for eight years. Human Services oversees the state’s Medicaid program and many other important health and social service programs. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jen on many important issues, and I know she will be long respected for her hard work and commitment to the Department and – more importantly – to the disadvantaged residents of our state.

Too often people outside of state government throw stones at those in public positions, without fully understanding the constraints of state rules and regulations. I know, having served in state government myself. But Jen Velez is truly one of the most dedicated public servants I have ever met. I think her position is one of the toughest jobs in Trenton, and she has done it with integrity and with a true passion for service. Even though her home is far from Trenton, she put in many late nights trying to manage one of the largest departments in state government.  She “gets it” from every level.  She understands the impediments to making things happen and has always gone the extra mile to help the people who rely on DHS. She truly cared about every aspect of her job and her department, and all of the people out there served by DHS.  She will certainly be missed in Trenton, but I am very much looking forward to continue working with Jen in her new role at Barnabas Health.