Interim Director
A. D. Rachel Pierre serves as the Interim Director of the Department of Human Services (DHS), where she oversees a workforce of 1,500 employees and manages a budget exceeding $900 million. Rachel has been with DHS since December 2020, serving as the Administrator for the Family Services Administration (FSA). In addition to her current role, she previously served as Interim Director for four months in 2023 during the Director’s sabbatical.
Drawing on over 20 years of experience in nonprofit and social work, Rachel is dedicated to enhancing the delivery of human services across the District, improving outcomes for residents, and fostering a supportive environment for DHS staff.
Rachel’s career reflects her deep commitment to serving District residents. She began as a child welfare social worker, progressed to senior management at Lutheran Social Services, and later served as Chief Operating Officer at Pathways to Housing DC.
As FSA Administrator, Rachel led the District’s continuum of care for homeless services, spanning prevention, diversion, street outreach, emergency shelter, and permanent housing solutions for families, single adults, and youth. Her leadership extended to juvenile justice diversion programs, community services through the Youth Services Division, administration of Block Grants, and the launch of the Office of Migrant Services.
Born in Haiti, Rachel moved to the District at age 13, where she cultivated her passion for serving her community. She is a co-founder and current board member of the Haitian Ladies Network, demonstrating her ongoing dedication to empowering others.
A recognized servant leader known for her efficiency, humility, and determination, Rachel’s collaborative and innovative leadership style inspires progress and meaningful change.
Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from James Madison University, a Master of Social Work from Howard University, and an MBA from the University of Maryland’s Smith School of Business.
A proud Ward 4 resident, Rachel is the mother of a college student, Kya, and a devoted pet parent to her dog, Milo. In her free time, she enjoys boxing, kickboxing, and spending time outdoors with loved ones.