Meet the Director

Jennifer Troia

Director
California Department of Social Services

Jennifer Troia was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom as the Director of the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) in October of 2024. In this role, she leads a team of more than 5,800 employees supporting programs that serve more than 7.2 million Californians. Jennifer joined the CDSS in January 2020 and previously served as Chief Deputy Director overseeing several divisions of the Department.

Jennifer has more than 20 years of experience working on programs serving children, adults, and families and is deeply passionate about CDSS’ mission to serve, protect, and support those most in need. Prior to her work at CDSS, she served in various capacities in the California Legislature from 2008-2019. Before that, she started her career as an attorney and advocate for children and youth in foster care.

She earned her Juris Doctorate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida.

She is honored to serve Californians in this leadership capacity.