Andrea Barton Reeves, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Social Services
QUEST 2007 and SUMMIT 2019 Alumna
At Leadership Greater Hartford, we take pride in celebrating alumni whose leadership shapes policy, drives equity, and uplifts entire communities. This month, we are honored to spotlight Andrea Barton Reeves, an alumna of our 2007 Quest class and current Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS)—the largest human services agency in the state.
A career rooted in service and advocacy
Andrea’s professional journey has been defined by a deep commitment to justice, equity, and access. A licensed attorney and experienced nonprofit executive, Andrea has spent decades serving Connecticut residents through leadership roles across healthcare, social services, and policy. Before her appointment as Commissioner, Andrea served as the inaugural CEO of the CT Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance Authority, where she led the creation and launch of the state's groundbreaking paid leave program—one of the most comprehensive in the country.
In 2023, Governor Ned Lamont appointed Andrea as Commissioner of DSS, where she now oversees a vast portfolio of programs that support more than a million residents through services including Medicaid, child care, food assistance, energy aid, and programs for older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Leading with empathy and equity
Andrea is widely recognized for her human-centered leadership, guiding major reforms in service delivery with a focus on transparency, dignity, and accessibility. Under her leadership, DSS has made strides in modernizing systems, improving benefits access, and fostering community engagement.
“Public service is about recognizing the humanity in every policy and every person,” she says. “My goal is to ensure that the programs we deliver reflect the values of the people we serve.”
The LGH Experience: Finding purpose in connection
Andrea credits her experience in LGH’s Quest 2007 cohort with deepening her understanding of regional challenges and opportunities. “Quest gave me a rare opportunity to pause, reflect, and connect—not just with a network of leaders, but with the heartbeat of Greater Hartford,” she reflects.
Through the program, Andrea found space to explore her leadership identity, build lasting relationships, and gain insight into the diversity of voices shaping the region. “That experience helped solidify my belief that leadership isn't about titles—it’s about responsibility, intention, and service.”
Staying grounded and giving back
Despite her full plate, Andrea remains deeply engaged in community life. She mentors emerging professionals, participates in equity-focused initiatives, and continues to support LGH’s mission through alumni engagement.
When asked what advice she has for aspiring changemakers, Andrea shares: “Be bold. Be curious. And never underestimate the power of showing up. You don’t need to have all the answers—just the courage to listen, learn, and lead with integrity.”
A glimpse into Andrea’s world
Outside of her professional commitments, Andrea enjoys spending time with her son, exploring Hartford’s arts and culture scene, and finding moments of peace in nature. She’s an avid reader, fierce advocate for women’s leadership, and believes deeply in lifting as she climbs.
Learn more and get involved
Commissioner Barton Reeves’ leadership exemplifies the values at the heart of Leadership Greater Hartford—courage, collaboration, and community. We’re proud to call her one of our own.
To learn more about the Department of Social Services and its resources, visit https://portal.ct.gov/dss