Honoring Estelle Richman

WHEREAS, When Estelle Richman accepted the position of Managing Director on December 1, 2001, she became, in effect, the chief operating officer of the City of Philadelphia. She brought to this challenge a proud history of academic and professional accomplishments, having served in the public sector for more than twenty-five years; and

WHEREAS, Ms. Richman is a nationally recognized expert on behavioral health, children’s services and other social services. She has been honored by the American Psychiatric Association, the American Medical Association, the Ford Foundation and others; and the behavioral health system won the 1999 Innovations in American Government Award, given by the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University; and

WHEREAS, In 1993, Ms. Richman was named Health Commissioner, a position in which she earned the respect of her superiors, colleagues and staff. In 2000, she became Director of Social Services, and her strong advocacy reaffirmed her reputation as a dedicated professional and a true leader; and

WHEREAS, As Managing Director, she has continued to win praise and to expand her public persona. She is widely regarded as an excellent and intelligent manager, a careful and considerate listener and a wise and decisive leader; and

WHEREAS, While we are losing Ms. Richman to Governor Rendell, who has tapped her for the position of Secretary of the Department of Public Welfare, we know she will only be a phone call away. And we confidently expect great things from her, for she is held in highest esteem throughout this City; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby honor and commend Ms. Estelle Richman. We thank her for her distinguished work on behalf of this government and the citizens it serves, and we wish her great success as a member of the Governor’s cabinet.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Ms. Estelle Richman as evidence of the deep respect and sincere admiration of this legislative body.

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