Meyer administration looks to keep heads of health and children’s departments

Delaware Gov.-elect Matt Meyer has nominated the current secretaries of the Department of Health and Social Services and the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families to stay on under his administration. Meyer also nominated a senior leader with the Delaware State Housing Authority to become director.

Josette Manning was sworn in as DHSS secretary in 2023, and had served as DSCYF secretary before that.

As secretary, Meyer said in a press release, she will continue to oversee the state’s efforts to enhance healthcare delivery, provide affordable options for Delawareans and strengthen community health across the state.

“Josette’s steadfast leadership of the Department of Health and Social Services is improving the lives of Delawareans,” he said. “Her deep understanding of the healthcare system and her commitment to equitable access to services will ensure the health and well-being of all Delawareans.”

Also staying on is Steve Yeatman, current DSCYF secretary.  

With over two decades of experience in child welfare, Meyer said Yeatman has dedicated his career to improving the lives of Delaware’s children and families through a focus on building community-based solutions, enhancing foster care programs and bettering health services for youth.

“Steven has an innate ability to thoughtfully and effectively lead the Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families,” Meyer said. “He will be a critical member of Team Meyer and will continue serving Delaware’s kids on day one of our administration.”

Nominated for director of DSHA is Matthew Heckles, who has served as a senior leader for the agency.

Heckles is currently the Mid-Atlantic regional administrator for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which serves Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. Heckles will be tasked with addressing Delaware’s growing housing affordability crisis, and working with stakeholders across the state to bring down costs, build more units and reduce homelessness, Meyer said.

“The rent is too damn high, and Matthew will help more Delaware families lower housing costs,” said Meyer said. “Housing is a human right, and I look forward to working with Matthew to build more affordable housing and help all Delawareans thrive.”

Meyer’s nominations will need to be confirmed by the Senate.