Cynthia Tate Appointed as Interim DCFS Director

Governor Bruce Rauner is still searching for a permanent director of Illinois’ Department of Children and Family Services, but starting Monday, Cynthia Tate will take over for former DCFS Director, Bobbie Gregg, on an interim basis while a search for a permanent director continues.

Gregg was the latest in a string of directors for the troubled agency - which has been criticized for neglecting youth in its care.

Cook County Judge Patrick Murphy used to represent youth in court when they entered the child welfare system, and says, "The problem with the directors, you’re putting them in charge of the Titanic after it’s already hit the iceberg."

That’s because the agency’s approach to child welfare is outdated.

Murphy says DCFS should have more interaction with families early in its interventions.