CSBG-DCL-2019-12 Announcement Regarding Seth Hassett, DCA Director

Dear Colleagues,

We are writing to inform you that in July, Seth Hassett, Director of the Division of Community Assistance (DCA) in the Office of Community Services (OCS) will be relocating to California due to a family opportunity. Mr. Hassett will continue to work remotely as the DCA Division Director for a limited time during the recruitment and selection of a new Division Director.

Since joining OCS in 2008, Mr. Hassett has provided program leadership for the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) through numerous transitions and program improvement efforts. His achievements include:

• Coordinating the distribution, risk management, and technical assistance efforts for $1 billion in funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009;

• Leading multiyear development and implementation of a new performance management framework for CSBG, including organizational standards and accountability measures;

• Planning and implementing administrative improvements, including new automated systems for application and reporting in CSBG; and

• Working with other managers and staff to create a revitalized focus on program integrity and customer service.

For nine out of his eleven years with OCS, Mr. Hassett also oversaw program administration for the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG). During this time, he was responsible for SSBG disaster supplemental funding of over $1 billion to support recovery from multiple disasters including Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy.

During his tenure with OCS, Mr. Hassett has been recognized with the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Exemplary Leadership Award as well as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary’s Award for Excellence in Management. From 2016 to 2017, he participated in the Federal Executive Institute’s Leadership for a Democratic Society program.

As a career federal manager, Seth has provided a steady hand guiding CSBG through numerous transitions, always maintaining a focus on the needs of people with low-income in communities who are the ultimate customers of OCS services. We appreciate his focus on mentorship, collegiality, good humor, and positive focus for our staff and grantees.

Sincerely,

           /s/                                                      /s/
Clarence H. Carter                           J. Janelle George
Acting Director                                 Acting Deputy Director
Office of Community Services         Office of Community Services