SPRINGFIELD - State Senator Ram Villivalam released the following statement after the Senate confirmed the appointment of Heidi Mueller as Director of the Department of Child and Family Services:

“Ensuring that youth and families across the state have access to services and programs provided through the Department of Child and Family Services is vital. It is equally as vital to have a director that understands and prioritizes the needs of our state’s most vulnerable children."

“Heidi Mueller’s knowledge of compassionate care and understanding of promoting positive youth outcomes will be a breath of fresh air for DCFS."

“I am committed to working with her to uplift ideas to address the monumental challenges facing the agency.”