Interim Director
Rachel Pierre serves as the Interim Director of the Department of Human Services (DHS), overseeing a workforce of 1,500 employees and managing a budget exceeding $900 million. She is a seasoned leader with more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit and government, dedicated to strengthening the delivery of human services across the District and driving meaningful change for residents.
Since joining DHS in December 2020 as Administrator for the Family Services Administration (FSA), Rachel has led critical initiatives to expand access to housing, youth services, and community-based support programs. She has twice served as Interim Director, most recently in 2023, ensuring continuity in agency leadership and advancing key policy priorities.
Rachel's career is defined by her deep commitment to serving District residents. Beginning as a child welfare social worker, she progressed to senior leadership roles, including Chief Operating Officer at Pathways to Housing DC and a senior management position at Lutheran Social Services. Her expertise spans homeless services, juvenile justice diversion, emergency response coordination, and interagency partnerships, making her a trusted advocate for vulnerable populations.
At DHS, she has been instrumental in enhancing the District’s continuum of care for homelessness services, overseeing prevention, diversion, street outreach, emergency shelters, and permanent housing solutions for families, single adults, and youth. She also spearheaded the launch of the Peer Case Management Institute, expanded the administration of federal Block Grants, and strengthened community-based services through the Youth Services Division.
A recognized servant leader, Rachel is known for her strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and results-driven approach. She fosters innovation and efficiency within government, ensuring that policies and programs translate into tangible improvements for District residents.
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. Outside of work, she enjoys boxing, kickboxing, and spending time outdoors with loved ones.