U.S. Senate Confirms Former CT Mental Health Czar For Federal Gig

CONNECTICUT — The U.S. Senate has confirmed Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Commissioner Miriam Delphin-Rittmon as assistant secretary for mental health and substance use at the federal Department of Health and Human Services.

President Joe Biden nominated Delphin-Rittmon for the post in April, and her confirmation was announced Thursday. In her new position, effective immediately, she will be responsible for leading the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Delphin-Rittmon, of Meriden, has served as the head of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services since 2015. Prior to becoming commissioner, she served with the state agency in several capacities, including as deputy commissioner, senior policy advisor, and director of its Office of Multicultural Healthcare Equity.

"Miriam has been a trusted advisor to me on some of the leading issues affecting our state and nation right now, especially when it comes to the impact that the opioid crisis is having on our country and the growing mental health needs resulting from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Gov. Ned Lamont.

The state's former mental health czar will be joining its former schools commissioner in the country's halls of power. Biden tapped Miguel Cardona to be education secretary in his cabinet last year.

Governor Lamont has asked Nancy Navarretta, deputy commissioner of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, to serve as the agency's acting commissioner until he appoints a permanent commissioner.