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"I am extremely pleased to welcome Joseph Semidei to this very important position that promotes the safety and well-being of children," said Secretary Shalala. "He brings a wealth of experience and accomplishments to the job. As increasing adoptions and improving the child protective system are two of our highest priorities, I look forward to exciting progress in the programs under his stewardship."

The Children's Bureau, the first federal office established for the welfare of children, is responsible for matters related to child welfare, including child abuse and neglect, child protective services, family preservation and support, adoption, foster care and independent living. The associate commissioner represents the ACF in initiating and implementing interagency activities and projects affecting children and families, and provides leadership and coordination for its programs, activities and subordinate components. The bureau has lead responsibility for implementation of the landmark Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997.

Semidei's career has been built around services to children and families in the New York area, aiming to integrate social policy and community organization whenever possible. In 1982, he was named deputy commissioner of the Bureau of Children and Family Services in the New York Department of Social Services. During his tenure there, he implemented the newly enacted Child Welfare Reform Act and broadened the service delivery system to include community-based organizations in high need areas of the state. Semidei also worked with the state legislature to reform the system of services provided in communities, establishing a more integrated service delivery network.

Following this position, Semidei established a new Children's Bureau for the Department of Mental Health in New York City, to focus the city's efforts on children with mental health needs.

"It is more important than ever that families need support from their communities in order to be healthy and productive," said Olivia A. Golden, HHS assistant secretary for children and families. "We are fortunate to have Joseph Semidei's vision and experience at the national level to work with states and communities to strengthen both birth and adoptive families ensuring safe, healthy and nurturing homes for our most vulnerable children."

A native of the Bronx, Semidei was educated in New York City and has served as professor of social work at Fordham University. He is 56 years old and married.

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