Stillman marks 10 years as ESA assistant secretary
Last week marked 10 years since David Stillman was named acting Assistant Secretary of the Economic Services Administration, a role he was appointed to permanently later in 2011.
“Over the past decade and indeed throughout your nearly 34 years as a state employee, you have shown exemplary leadership,” outgoing DSHS Secretary Cheryl Strange told Stillman, noting that he has received accolades like the Western Interstate Child Support Enforcement Council Individual Achievement Award and Governor’s Distinguished Manager Award, the highest recognition for a state government manager. WICSEC initiated him into its Presenter Hall of Fame in 2011, and he served as president of the National Child Support Enforcement Association and chair of the American Public Human Services Association’s Executive Governing Board. “No doubt you are proud of these accomplishments, and we at DSHS are proud of you.”
From support enforcement officer to division director to assistant secretary, Stillman has modeled servant leadership, showing by example what it means to put the needs of those you serve ahead of your own. His work on Governor Inslee’s Poverty Reduction Work Group helps reinforce DSHS’ shared, ambitious and unifying goal to reduce poverty by half in a way that eliminates disparities.
“As DSHS heads into another season of change, I am comforted in the knowledge that you will continue to lead steadily with your signature calm presence, easing people’s uncertainties while remaining centered yourself,” Strange added.
Stillman will step into yet a new role later this month as grandparent. Congratulations to him and his family, and to ESA on their 10 years of teamwork.