News from New York State Office of Temporary & Disability Assistance

For more information contact: Michael Hayes or Anthony Farmer, 518-474-9516

Commissioner Hansell Appoints New Executive Deputy

Albany County’s Berlin to Join State Agency

ALBANY, NY (09/26/2007; 1006)(readMedia)-- State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) Commissioner David A. Hansell has tapped Albany County’s social services commissioner to take over as his top deputy.

Elizabeth Berlin, Commissioner of the Albany County Department of Social Services since 2004, will join OTDA as its new Executive Deputy Commissioner. Berlin has been with Albany County DSS since 2001 and previously served as Health and Human Services Coordinator for Albany County Executive Michael Breslin.

“Beth is joining us at a very important time, as we reframe our mission to focus on increasing the economic security of low-income New Yorkers,” Commissioner Hansell said. “She is committed, knowledgeable, compassionate, and I am delighted to have her working with us at OTDA.”

Berlin, who will assume her new post on October 22, will be responsible for overall agency management in partnership with Commissioner Hansell and will also oversee local social service districts and work to strengthen ties between the counties and the state.

“Governor Spitzer and Commissioner Hansell have been firmly committed to improving the lives of working families and I look forward to working with all of the dedicated individuals at OTDA and at the local level,” said Berlin.

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