South Dakota Social Services Secretary Matt Althoff Steps Down; Deputy Named Interim Secretary
PIERRE — The leader of South Dakota's Department of Social Services is being replaced effective immediately. Governor Larry Rhoden's office announced on October 19 that Secretary Matt Althoff “will complete his service” as of Friday, saying Althoff has a “desire to spend more of his time in Sioux Falls closer to his family” (GSM, based on the governor's office release and reporting by South Dakota Public Broadcasting). Rhoden thanked Althoff for his service to the state.
“During my time at the Department of Social Services, we have helped children, families, and so many South Dakotans through some of the most difficult times in their lives,” Althoff said. “I'm full of gratitude for the opportunity to serve South Dakota in this capacity for the past few years, and I trust that the people of the Department will continue to strengthen families by fostering health, wellbeing, and independence.” Althoff was appointed by then-Governor Kristi Noem in 2023.
Rhoden has tapped Deputy Secretary Brenda Tidball-Zeltinger, who has served in state government for 35 years, as interim secretary. “It has been an honor to serve the State of South Dakota. I will approach this position with the same diligence and passion for public service,” Tidball-Zeltinger said. “Social Services is there for families during some of the most difficult times in their lives, and that responsibility inspires our work every day. I am truly blessed to serve alongside employees who are committed to strengthening families through compassionate service and responsible stewardship.”
The Department of Social Services oversees child and family services, Medicaid and other social welfare programs in South Dakota. The governor's office did not announce a timeline for naming a permanent secretary.
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 南达科他州议会大厦，Pierre / South Dakota State Capitol, Pierre — Jake DeGroot 摄，CC BY-SA 3.0，Wikimedia Commons
