July 1, 2019
MaryLee Allen, director of policy at the Children's Defense Fund, passed away on June 13, 2019. For over 40 years, Ms. Allen led the way in shaping advocacy for children's welfare, health, and safety. She also strongly influenced federal child welfare policy, including the Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act of 1980 and the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008. Her most recent work involved ensuring the passage and effective implementation of the landmark Family First Prevention Services Act of 2018.