Learn more about Marissa Kirby-Stofferahn, the new Policy Liaison Lead for the Minnesota Child Welfare Training Academy.

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Prior to moving to the Training Academy, I worked for the Child Safety and Permanency Division at the Department of Human Services (DHS) starting in 2014. I worked in constituent services and safety policy, helping families and community members with child welfare concerns and providing technical assistance to child welfare agencies, including editing the MN Child Maltreatment, Intake, Screening and Response Path Guidelines.  I hold a bachelor’s degree in History and Political Science and Master of Social Work, and am a licensed social worker. Prior to moving to Minnesota, I worked in policy and advocacy roles in Illinois and the Illinois Governor’s Office.

What is your new role at the Academy?

With the Training Academy, I will be filling the role of Child Welfare Policy Liaison Lead. This position serves as the lead for following and developing policy related partnerships and collaborations supporting Academy staff and the workforce.

Tell us a little bit about your journey to to this role.

Through my professional journey, I’ve found that child welfare, developing policy, and providing support to help families thrive is my passion. My professional goal is to lead with values of equity, humility, and the belief that all families deserve to be supported, engaged, and affirmed in their experiences and engage in relationships to foster those values to support people doing this critical child welfare work.

What excites you about your new role?

I’m excited to partner more with Training Academy staff and become more familiar with that work as well as engage with broader child welfare policy.

What do you like to do outside of work? Any hobbies or interests?

I have a 7 and 3 year old and most of my time revolves around their activities. I’m a voracious reader, love TV, and most anything else that keeps me out of the cold weather. I was recently appointed to the Ramsey County Libraries Governing Board and volunteer with Mom’s Demand Action and children’s programming with my church. I also love to travel and am open to any and all suggestions for trip ideas!