ST. PAUL, MN - Governor Tim Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan today announced the appointment of Shireen Gandhi as temporary commissioner of the Department of Human Services (DHS) until a permanent commissioner is appointed. Gandhi will take over leadership of the agency following the departure of Jodi Harpstead, who stepped down on February 3 after five and a half years of service.

“I am grateful to Shireen Gandhi for stepping up to lead the Department of Human Services,” said Governor Walz. “Gandhi has a wealth of experience in health care, budget, finance, and continuous improvement initiatives, and has been a champion for our children and families. As temporary commissioner, she is well positioned to leverage her skills and knowledge to ensure a seamless transfer of leadership.”

“Shireen Gandhi has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the people of Minnesota, and I am immensely grateful for her willingness to step in as temporary commissioner of the Department of Human Services,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “Gandhi possesses the skills and experience necessary to ensure the continued delivery of high-quality services to communities across Minnesota during this period of transition.”

“I am honored that Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan have put their trust in me to lead the Department of Human Services as temporary commissioner,” said Shireen Gandhi. “DHS has talented staff and leaders across the agency, who are dedicated to delivering critical services to the people of Minnesota. Together we will continue the momentum of continuously improving our processes and strengthening our internal controls.”

About Shireen Gandhi
Shireen Gandhi joined the Department of Human Services in 2017, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in health care to the agency. Prior to her temporary commissioner appointment, Gandhi served as a DHS deputy commissioner overseeing budgeting and financial operations, agency operations strategy, and other agency operations. Since 2022, Gandhi has served on the Technology Advisory Council, which advises the commissioner of Minnesota IT Services.

Before her appointment as deputy commissioner in 2022, Gandhi served as assistant commissioner and chief compliance officer. She led the creation of a new compliance infrastructure and oversight program to improve operations and compliance with federal laws, regulations, and rules. She led and continues to champion agencywide process improvement initiatives to strengthen the internal controls of DHS.

Gandhi has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of Minnesota and a law degree from Hamline University School of Law. She is active in the Minnesota State Bar Association and a past chair of its Health Law Section. She is also a member of the Minnesota Asian Pacific American Bar Association.

About the Department of Human Services
Minnesota DHS’ mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners - counties, Tribes, and nonprofits - supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities. DHS is responsible for providing services for elders, people with disabilities and behavioral health needs, and those experiencing homelessness.