A key component of a better Chicago and a better Illinois is strong leadership in the non-glamour positions, such as Department of Children and Family Services Director.
While a Nov. 16 article highlighted a lowlight (“Illinois child deaths linked to neglect, abuse at 30-year high“), what is also shown is the top notch professional job Richard Calica has done as DCFS Director.
For so many years DCFS lacked leadership and the sue of basic management skills, which caused many children to fall between the cracks. Calica did more with less, cutting the backlog and instituting changes that help children in Chicago and Illinois.
Learning about the positive changes he made in a short time period with less money is a lesson for a brighter Chicago future. Recruit and keep motivated and skilled hands in key positions.
It is with great sadness I read about his illness and my family’s thought and prayers are with him.
— James Knibbs, Chicago
