HHS News Release

HHS Secretary Donna E. Shalala today named Michael Kharfen as director, Office of Public Affairs, Administration for Children and Families.

In his new position, Kharfen will serve as the spokesman for the programs, issues and initiatives of ACF, including Aid to Families with Dependent Children, Head Start, child support enforcement, child abuse and neglect, child welfare, developmental disabilities, Native Americans and refugee resettlement. His responsibilities also include intergovernmental liaison with states, local governments and non-governmental organizations.

"Michael Kharfen brings the necessary energy, talent and skill to focus attention on programs for children and families," said Secretary Shalala. "His experience on the front lines in New York City, where he developed initiatives to improve services for families, will be invaluable to HHS."

Kharfen most recently served as director of community assistance in the office of former New York Mayor David Dinkins. From 1990-1993, he represented the mayor to the press and public. He also was responsible for coordinating community relations agencies and successfully mediating major city-wide and community crises. From 1987-1989, he was deputy director of community services for Manhattan Borough President David Dinkins for whom he developed and designed community-based programs as well as coordinated actions to resolve community issues.

"I am especially pleased that Michael Kharfen has joined ACF," said Mary Jo Bane, assistant secretary for children and families. "Michael will help us improve our communication and outreach to our diverse partners, including the states, grantees, press, advocates and the public."

He received his bachelor of arts degree in political science from Oberlin College in 1982. In 1989, Kharfen was named as a fellow at the Brookdale Center on Aging at Hunter College.

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Contact: ACF Press Office (202) 401-9215