MDHHS announces interim senior deputy director of its Children’s Services Administration

Director Hertel thanks Demetrius Starling for his work overseeing Michigan's child welfare system

LANSING, Mich. - Today, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced Tim Click will serve as interim senior deputy director of its Children's Services Administration (CSA) following Demetrius Starling's departure to become the executive program officer for the Human Services Program at the Kresge Foundation.

"MDHHS is deeply committed to keeping kids safe as well as supporting and strengthening Michigan families," said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. "I'm confident Tim Click will lead with integrity and stability as interim senior deputy director during this transition."

Click began his career with MDHHS in 1994, serving as a children's protective services (CPS) specialist in Ionia County. Click has held several positions at MDHHS, including program manager overseeing CSA and Economic Stability Administration programs in Ionia and Montcalm counties and county director for Barry, Eaton and Allegan counties. As the In-Home Services Bureau director, Click is responsible for the administration of the CPS Program Office, Centralized Intake and overseeing child abuse and neglect prevention and family preservation programs aimed at keeping children safe and strengthening families.

Click will serve as interim senior deputy director of the Children's Services Administration effective Monday, Jan. 12.

"I'm grateful to Demetrius for his dedication to MDHHS and his 26 years of service to Michigan's children and families," Hertel said. "Demetrius has done a remarkable job guiding Michigan's child welfare system through meaningful change and growth. He leaves a lasting positive impact, promoting equity, safety and well-being for children and families across the state."

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