DSS Director resigns after more than 5 years of service

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – The S.C. Department of Social Services Director is planning to step down from his position after more than five years of service, as announced by Governor Henry McMaster.

Michael Leach will resign from his position effective January 2, 2025.

“Serving in this role for the past five and a half years at the S.C. Department of Social Services has been an incredible honor and privilege. I have had the chance to work alongside a dedicated team and contribute to serving South Carolina’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Director Leach in his resignation letter. 

Leach was nominated by the governor back in March 2019, serving as director for over five years.

“I believe I was destined to be here in South Carolina at DSS during a chaotic time when people needed help more than ever. I am proud of the work we have done and the positive impact we’ve made on our South Carolina community,” said Leach.

Governor McMaster said Leach had improved all aspects of the agency and had positively impacted thousands of lives through his foster care reforms. The governor says he wishes him nothing but success in his future endeavors.

“Director Leach has been an exemplary leader for our state, excelling in a challenging role at a crucial time,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Thanks to his leadership, the agency is stronger and more effective than when he started.”

Officials say during Leach’s tenure, the percentage of licensed kinship caregivers rose from 6% to over 27%. The state set a record with 645 public adoptions in 2023, bringing the total number of adoptions since 2019 to 2,572.

“Collaborating with dedicated colleagues and advocates has been inspiring, and I am grateful for the support and guidance I received from everyone in South Carolina,” said Leach.

Governor McMaster will make further announcements regarding the leadership of the agency in the near future, according to the Office of the Governor.