FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, August 6, 2021
MEDIA CONTACT
Andrea De La Bruere, Executive Director, Agency of Human Services
[email protected]
Secretary Mike Smith Announces Tracy Dolan as the Director of the State Refugee Office
Mike Smith, Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Human Services, announced today that Deputy Commissioner of Health Tracy Dolan will become the new director of the State Refugee Office effective August 30. Ms. Dolan will assume the responsibilities for day-to-day operations, management, and expansion of services for Vermont’s refugee program.
Dolan has over 25 years of experience working in public health. For the past 11 years, she has served in a variety of roles at the Vermont Department of Health. Most recently, as Deputy Commissioner, she helped create and strengthen partnerships with Vermont’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, especially during the pandemic.
Prior to coming to Vermont, Dolan worked in public health overseas with a focus on HIV/AIDS care and prevention, maternal and child health, and reproductive health. Among other countries, she has worked in Malawi, Zambia, and India. Dolan also developed programs for children and families in post-conflict settings such as Afghanistan and Uganda, as well as for internally displaced people in Ethiopia and Kenya.
Governor Phil Scott has been a strong advocate for strengthening the state’s refugee resettlement program. In March of this year, he wrote to U.S. Department of State officials urging them to triple the number of refugees sent to Vermont next year, a request he has made in three previous years. “As a state and nation, we have a moral obligation to welcome those from around the world seeking opportunity and the American Dream,” said Governor Scott. “Refugees are also an integral part of our efforts to grow Vermont’s economy, and build stronger communities.”
Dolan’s appointment follows the retirement of long-time program director Denise Lamoureux. “Denise was an effective steward of our refugee resettlement program during difficult global challenges,” said Secretary Smith. “Tracy is perfect for this job. Given her extensive background in public health and her experience abroad helping individuals and families in crisis, I can think of few people more qualified for the position,” Smith said.
“I value and will miss her counsel at the Department of Health,” said Health Commissioner Mark Levine, MD. “That said, I’m very pleased that she’ll continue to serve our state by bringing her talent and expertise to her new role.”
“I’m excited for this new opportunity and challenge,” said Dolan. “I’m eager to learn from and work with our community partners to lead and grow Vermont’s Refugee program.”
Dolan earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Education from Dalhousie University, and her Master’s in Public Health from the University of Northern British Columbia.
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