Governor Lamont Names Susan Hamilton Interim Commissioner of the Department of Children and Families

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is naming Susan Hamilton to serve as interim commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF), succeeding Commissioner Jodi Hill-Lilly, whose previously announcedretirement from state service became effective Monday.

Hamilton is currently the agency's general counsel - a role that she has held since 2023. She previously served as DCF commissioner from 2007 to 2011 under former Governor M. Jodi Rell.

"Sue began her career at DCF, first working as a social worker and providing intensive case management for children and families in their homes and communities, and then eventually progressing in several positions before being appointed as commissioner and leading this agency for several years," Governor Lamont said. "She returned two years ago to serve as general counsel, and her extensive experience makes her ready to immediately step back into the role as commissioner for a second stint. The services DCF provides - safeguarding some of the most vulnerable youths in our state - are among the most important in government, and it is a function whose work never stops."

"I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to serve again as the DCF commissioner to help lead an incredible and dedicated team who work tirelessly to promote the safety, permanency, and well-being of Connecticut's children and families," Hamilton said. "We will continue to work together with our partners, including our families, youths, providers, sister state agencies, the legislature, and the Judicial branch to ensure a smooth transition and improved outcomes for the children and families we collectively serve. I want to thank Governor Lamont for placing his trust in me and for his continued support of our important mission."

Hamiton has held several positions in DCF, including as a social worker from 1993 to 1995, social work supervisor from 1995 to 1997, program supervisor from 1997 to 1998, director of the agency's legal division from 1998 to 2006, and then she was appointed commissioner in 2007 and served in that role until the end of the Rell administration in 2011. She also served as under secretary of legislative affairs at the Office of Policy and Management immediately prior to being appointed commissioner.

Upon leaving DCF, Hamilton operated her own private law firm from 2011 to 2014, and then served as a public defender from 2014 to 2023, including several years as director of delinquency defense and child protection in a role that required her to supervise all public defender staff assigned to juvenile court field offices, including attorneys, social workers, investigators, and support staff. She returned to DCF in 2023 to become general counsel.

Hamilton earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and justice studies from the University of New Hampshire, a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Connecticut School of Social Work, and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law.