This talk addresses the sea change in how social safety net programs are administered in the United States and the concurrent dismantling of health and human services expertise at the federal level. It considers the implications of these shifts for children and families who depend on these programs, as well as for the professionals and future leaders who will shape their future.
Larry Handerhan serves as the Assistant Secretary for Programs at Maryland Department of Human Services, where he leads the agency’s H.R.1 implementation, coordinates audit resolution initiatives, and manages statewide practice reforms.
Larry joined MDHS from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), where he served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Management at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), helping lead strategy and operations for the nation’s $75 billion human services agency. Larry previously served as Chief of Staff for ACF, where he led special projects across policy and operations, including work to improve Tribal programs and support LGBTQ communities.
Prior to his HHS service, Larry served as Chief of Staff for the D.C. Department of Human Services, where he supported system transformation work to end homelessness and improve public benefit access. Previously, Larry served as a Senior Advisor and Special Assistant at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), where he led operational excellence initiatives to deliver world-class customer service.
Larry earned a Bachelor of Arts from Bates College and a Master of Public Affairs from Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs.
Lunch will be served starting at 11:45 AM.