Celebrating International Women's Day, CA DCSS Recognizes its Female Executives

In today’s political climate more women than ever are joining the ranks of the political world and getting involved in making policies that effect everyday Americans.  Historically, this field has been predominantly lead by men, but at California Department of Child Support Services (CA DCSS) it is Anne Drumm who is the Assistant Director of Legislative Affairs. 

Anne earned her Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Minnesota and after moving to California, began working at the Fair Political Practices Commission investigating violations of the Political Reform Act. 

It was at the FPPC when she volunteered to help in the Legislative Office that she developed her passion for public policy and legislative affairs. “It was a really small legislative office, it was sink or swim as there wasn’t anyone to hide behind so I learned quickly,” Anne said. 

Anne left the FPPC and moved into private sector lobbying where she worked on a broad range of legislative topics. She was also selected to participate in the CORO Fellowship program in southern California. During the year-long fellowship, Anne learned that problem solving is best accomplished in a collaborative setting where all views can be heard and mutually agreeable solutions can be honed.

After a breast cancer diagnosis in 2004 and time for thoughtful reflection, Anne decided to change her career direction and return to public service where she could contribute by learning health policy.  She began working at the Department of Health Services in 2005 and absorbed all she could while working on women’s health policies and other public health issues, which she felt were close to her heart.  

“I love working in public policy, and the issues we work on are fulfilling and meaningful for me. I enjoy the challenge of finding the best path forward for complex problems.” 

Anne joined CA DCSS in 2013 after serving several years as the Legislative Deputy at the Office of State Health Planning and Development. At CA DCSS she oversees the department’s legislative activity, including working on bills that impact the child support program.  By working with legislative staff, Health and Human Services Agency staff and the Governor’s Office, she  ensures that the department is represented in policy discussions. 

When asked what she would tell young women seeking executive-level careers Anne says, “ask questions, identify mentors and be open to learning something completely out of your comfort zone.”

But she also extends responsibility to those who have walked the path already, “for those of us who are a few steps further down the road in our careers, we need to be sure to reach back and bring others along with us because that’s how the road continues to be built forward.” 

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