Jennifer Velez is leaving her post as New Jersey Department of Human Services commissioner after eight years to take a leadership position with West Orange, N.J.-based Barnabas Health at the end of February, according to Philly.com.
Ms. Velez is credited for expertly handling some of the biggest changes to Medicaid in New Jersey's history, as well as for improving many non-healthcare programs, according to the report.
Elizabeth Connolly, who currently serves as Ms. Velez's chief of staff, will be acting commissioner until Governor Chris Christie (R) nominates a successor.