Michelle Basham named Director of Ramsey County Social Services Department
Michelle Basham has been named Director of Ramsey County Social Services. Basham, who currently serves as a Deputy Director for Operations and Partnerships for Vocational Rehabilitation Services at the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), will join the county November 13.
“We are thrilled to have an innovative leader of Michelle’s caliber stepping into this role,” said Kathy Hedin, Deputy County Manager of the Health and Wellness Service Team. “Throughout her career, Michelle has been a tireless advocate for children and families, youth experiencing homelessness and sexual exploitation, and work to advance racial equity and inclusion. Her passion and commitment to community, and her record of achievement in the nonprofit and public sectors make her ideal for this crucial position at the county.”
Basham currently leads key business management areas at DEED’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Her previous work over more than 25 years in human services includes leadership positions at: YWCAs In Minneapolis and Delaware, FamilyWise, CommonBond Communities, the Bridge for Youth, and the Minnesota Department of Human Services. At the age of 19, Basham founded Avenues for Youth, the first shelter for homeless youth in Minneapolis.
Basham holds a bachelor’s degree in communications and organizational development from Augsburg College, a graduate degree in public administration/business from Hamline University, and a Juris Doctorate from the Mitchell Hamline School of Law. She currently serves as an adjunct Professor at Mitchell Hamline in their Institute to Transform Child Protection. Basham lives in Saint Paul with her husband, stepson and a house full of rescue animals.
“I am excited and honored to be joining Ramsey County as Social Services Director,” said Basham. “I’m looking forward to working with community and staff as the department continues its journey of progress in transforming systems to put residents first and meet the needs of individuals and families.”
The county’s Social Services Department works to address disparities by providing timely, responsive, and quality services to community, residents and families. These supports include: adult mental health, support and crisis services; aging and disability services and MnCHOICES: and children and family services. The department has an annual budget in 2023 of $117.8 million and 683 full-time equivalent positions.