MANSFIELD — The Richland County Children Services Board has announced the appointment of Tara Lautzenhiser as the new Executive Director.
Lautzenhiser succeeds Nikki Harless, who retired on Jan. 31 after more than 32 years of dedicated public service. Lautzenhiser will assume her new role on Feb. 3.
Lautzenhiser brings to her new role more than a decade of child welfare experience. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from The Ohio State University and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in forensic psychology from Tiffin University.
She began her career at Richland County Children Services (RCCS) in 2008 serving in various roles including Program Services.
A native of Mansfield, she knows the clients and the needs of the community. Lautzenhiser is passionate about child welfare, and making a difference in the lives of the children and families RCCS serves.
As the new Executive Director, Lautzenhiser will continue to foster a collaborative work environment that aligns with the mission and vision of RCCS.
She is committed to the development of community partnerships and new programs that will support the well-being of families keeping children safe and families together.
About Richland County Children Services
The mission of Richland County Children Services is to lead our community in assuring the safety, well-being, and permanency of children at risk of abuse and neglect. In our ideal community, we envision:
— The community invests in the future of its children by providing opportunities to develop their social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and cultural skills;
— Every child has a permanent, emotionally, and economically stable family;
— The community values and supports the work of Richland County Children Services through its funding, provision of board leadership, and excellence in county governance;
— A committed staff that is supported by the Board and the community.
— The community respects diversity and supports the racial, cultural, and ethnic heritage of its families and neighborhoods.