Burns named JFS director

 Jennifer Burns has been named director of Carroll County Job and Family Services (JFS), succeeding longtime director Kate Offenberger.

The announcement was made last week by Commissioner Christopher Modranski on behalf of Carroll County Commissioners, who said Burns has “dedicated her career to serving Carroll County.” She will step into her new role Feb. 1, 2025.

The Minerva resident began her career with Carroll County in December 1998 at JFS, serving first as a social service worker before advancing to social service supervisor. From 2009 through 2017, she served as the Family and Children First Council’s service coordinator, where she worked to improve outcomes for families and children in the community. She returned to JFS as a program administrator and has served as assistant director under Offenberger since December 2023.

Offenberger is set to retire Jan. 31, 2025.

“We are thrilled to announce Jennifer Burns as the new Director of Carroll County Job and Family Services,” Modranski said..” Jennifer’s extensive experience, dedication to our community and proven leadership make her the ideal person to guide the agency into the future. Her decades of service, from social work to her role as assistant director, have demonstrated her commitment to supporting Carroll County’s families and individuals. We are confident she will continue to lead with excellence and compassion.”

“I am excited about the new opportunities and challenges that come with this role,” Burns said “JFS has a great staff, and I am fortunate to work with them. I have enjoyed working with Kate over the years and wish her the best in her retirement.”

Modranski extended gratitude to Offenberger for her years of dedicated service and leadership on behalf of commissioners.