SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm announced plans to retire from her post at the end of the year. Meanwhile, Governor Tim Walz announced his reappointment of Department of Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead.
State Rep. Jen Schultz (DFL – Duluth), chair of the House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee, issued the following statement:
“Commissioner Malcolm has dedicated her entire professional career to protecting and enhancing the public health of Minnesotans. Throughout her time leading MDH, she performed with excellence as she responded to unprecedented challenges. While the issues surrounding her work too often regrettably became entangled in politics, she consistently rose above the fray and provided the thoughtful, steady leadership Minnesotans counted on, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and its times of greatest uncertainty.
“I join the rest of our state in expressing gratitude for Commissioner Malcolm’s service, expertise, and leadership. Congratulations to her on her retirement, and I wish her well as she begins this next chapter.
“I also want to congratulate Commissioner Harpstead on her reappointment to continue leading DHS. If she completes this new term, she will be the longest serving commissioner at the agency. She has taken on complicated projects – both related to accountability and culture – and this important work will continue under her leadership.”