DEAR $ x Ron DeSanti EGO - state of Florida Governor 8 & Department of Children and Families % $ Chad Poppell s Secretary %, 3 *EMAND * MYFLFAMILIES.COM February 5, 2021 Governor DeSantis, | want to begin by thanking you, the First Lady, and your entire team for the support provided me the last ‘two years as Secretary. Your leadership, especially this last year, has been courageous and I am proud to say Iam a part of your team. This has been, without question, the most fulfilling time of my professional life, So, itis with some sadness that I tender my resignation to you today. With your permission my last day will be February 19, 2021 Lam excited about beginning the next chapter of my professional life and being able to focus more of my energy on my own family. Their sacrifice made my time at DCF possible and I am eager to try and repay that gift. Thank you for our call this week, as we discussed, itis time for me to step aside and let the next Secretary continue the joumey you set for DCF upon coming into office. Lam going to miss the sense of purpose the mission of DCF gives to every second of the day. The challenges were great, but the way the men and women of DCF rose to meet them is something I will always remember. I must also thank the First Lady for her leadership around mental health issues and the care of children in our state. It was an unexpected blessing and energized DCF more than she will ever know. ‘When you offered me the role you challenged me to take action on several fronts. While the task is far from complete, I can tell you that your call to action was successful. The wins are numerous. From fundamentally changing DCF’s role in driving performance through landmark legislation, to strengthening the child welfare and mental health systems for our most vulnerable, to fully embracing the state’s faith-based communities to meet the needs of the foster care system, there is much to celebrate. Thave never felt God’s hand of favor like I did in this role. That is why T know great things lie ahead for Florida in the years to come. If you ever need me, please don’t hesitate to call With gratitude, yes} W/ Chad Poppet 1317 Winewood Boulevard, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0700 Mission: Work in Partnership with Local Communities to Protect the Vulnerable, Promote Strong and Economically Self-Sufficient Families, and Advance Personal and Family Recovery and Resiliency