SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) announces that after 40 years of serving Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), Director Nancy Bargmann will retire effective Sept. 6.

Director Bargmann’s career is marked by her commitment to improving the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy, innovation, and collaboration. During her eight-year tenure as Director, the department has closed all developmental centers and developed and implemented numerous initiatives to enhance services and supports that foster inclusivity and choice for more than 440,000 persons served and their families. This includes but is not limited to the Safety Net Program, Self-Determination Program, Direct Support Professional (DSP) Workforce Initiatives, and the Service Access and Equity Grant Program. Bargmann’s focus on strengthening relationships with self-advocates and families, regional centers, advocacy groups, and service providers to advance service-delivery, improve service access for diverse communities, and reach more individuals and families has laid a strong foundation for the department’s continued progress in the years to come.

“Under Director Bargmann’s leadership, more people with intellectual and developmental disabilities statewide are now able to make meaningful decisions about where they want to live, work and enjoy their communities,” said California Health & Human Services Agency (CalHHS) Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly. “I’m grateful for her years of dedicated service and guiding the department to create more equitable and accessible opportunities for all Californians.”

Nancy Bargmann began her career as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) in 1984. She went on to hold several positions and leadership roles at regional centers, service providers, and the State, including as associate executive director at San Gabriel/Pomona Regional Center and deputy director of the Community Services Division at the Department of Developmental Services. Bargmann was appointed Director of the Department of Developmental Services on March 4, 2016, by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. and reappointed in 2020 by Governor Gavin Newsom.

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and an honor to work alongside so many dedicated professionals and advocates,” said Director Bargmann. “I am very proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to seeing how DDS will continue to advance its mission and vision so that every person with I/DD can live the life they choose.”

Bargmann is looking forward to spending time with loved ones and pursuing personal interests while enjoying her retirement.