Louisiana – Governor Jeff Landry has announced a leadership change at the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), naming Rebecca Harris as the new Secretary. Judge David Matlock will serve as Confidential Assistant to the Secretary, effective August 1.
Governor Landry praised Harris’s leadership and experience, highlighting her dedication to protecting vulnerable children and improving department operations. “Rebecca has consistently demonstrated the kind of steady, thoughtful leadership Louisiana families need,” Landry said. “I have full confidence she will strengthen this department and deliver positive outcomes for our most vulnerable citizens.”
In accepting the appointment, Harris expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead DCFS during a critical period of transformation. “I’m proud to lead this team of dedicated and courageous professionals who show up every day for Louisiana’s children and families,” she said. Harris emphasized her focus on strategic commitments to improve outcomes for those the department serves.
Judge David Matlock reflected on his tenure as DCFS Secretary, expressing pride in past progress and gratitude for the chance to continue advocating for children. “Advocacy and foster care have always been my passion,” Matlock said. He looks forward to concentrating on building supportive environments for children in need.
Rebecca Harris brings more than 20 years of public service experience within Louisiana to her new role. Beginning her career as a Social Services Analyst at DCFS, she gained valuable frontline insight into the state’s social support systems. Her leadership has spanned operational improvement, financial management, policy development, and enterprise system modernization.
Notably, Harris played a key role in launching Louisiana’s well-regarded summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program and implementing critical upgrades to the state’s child welfare hotline. She also introduced real-time dashboards to assist child welfare decision-making and streamlined procurement processes to enhance outcomes while reducing costs.
Harris holds degrees in Anthropology and Business Administration, combining strategic vision with practical experience to guide Louisiana’s child-centric systems. She remains deeply committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and families across the state.