Ron Moorman, President and CEO of the Child Care Association of Illinois, will retire on July 31st of this year.

In his capacity of leadership for the Association, Ron has been a driving force who has shaped the critical role of the private provider in the Illinois public-private child welfare system. It is in great part thanks to Ron's willingness to participate actively in develop this role that life has been improved for so many children in Illinois.

Ron has provided far more than just leadership to the association. He is that rare bird – a truly dedicated individual whose calling has always been to do what is in the best interests of children. For 22 years, 15 of them as President and CEO, Ron has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for children in Illinois. This meant many years of supporting the system and the Child Care’s voluntary, not-for-profit membership during years of the system’s expansion, creating capacity, developing initiatives, and crafting important legislation such as that which provides for family preservation and that which moves children into permanency at far faster rates than anywhere else in the country. More recently, it has meant redefining and refining the role of the private agency as more children are moved out of the system and into permanency.

Ron Moorman’s career and contributions are a mirror of all that is good, right, and honorable in the Illinois child welfare system. The relationship Ron has had with those at DCFS who have been fortunate enough to work with him over the years has been rich and rewarding. How appropriate it is that the values you have imparted to the Illinois child welfare system should lead to a scholarship in your name.

Fondest regards and wishes from those many DCFS employees, past and present, who have had the privilege and honor of working collaboratively with you to improve life for children in Illinois.

Note: Those wishing to wish Ron congratulations and best wishes may contact him via e-mail at ilcca@aol.com.