Susan Crowley Returns as Interim Director of Dane County Human Services

March 20, 2002
Sharyn Wisniewski, 267-8823
County Executive

Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today that Charity Eleson will be leaving as director of the Dane County Department of Human Services effective April 19. Susan Crowley, who served as human services department director prior to Eleson, will return as interim director. Crowley is currently Director of Prevention Services at University Health Services, UW-Madison. She has 22 years of experience in county human services, and served as the county’s Director of the Department of Human Services from 1997 until her departure in 2000. She will be taking a leave of absence from her university position. “I am pleased to have the opportunity once again to serve the citizens of Dane County,” said Crowley. “The provision of human services is a vital county function that many citizens count on. I look forward to leading county efforts during this transition period.” Falk praised Eleson’s leadership of the Department of Human Services. Eleson served for 11 years as the department’s manager of communications and worked on state and federal legislation dealing with human services. She also was Dane County’s lobbyist prior to her appointment to head the human services department in October 2000. “We are fortunate to have had Eleson’s leadership during this very challenging time of funding for critical human services,” said Falk. “She was a strong advocate for the services that affect people very directly. She was tireless and successful in her efforts to find cost effective ways to deliver services. Eleson gave enormous time and energy in one of the most difficult jobs in county government. We will miss her, and wish her well.” said Falk. Eleson said, “Although I have greatly appreciated the opportunity I had to lead the Department of Human Services, I have reluctantly come to the conclusion that the time commitment that the job demands is not a good fit for my family and me at this point in my life.“ Falk said the county is fortunate to gain Crowley’s services as interim director. “I have great respect for Crowley’s abilities. We couldn’t ask for a more experienced, steady hand at the wheel during this transition period,” said Falk. Crowley will begin as interim director on May 6. She will be paid 80% of an annual salary rate of $90,000 for the position as interim director, and will continue to perform some duties for University Health Services. # # #