Spotlight of the Week: Kristi Burre – A Champion for Child Welfare in Ohio
Kristi Burre is a name synonymous with dedication, innovation, and leadership in the field of child welfare in Ohio. With over two decades of experience, she has made significant strides in transforming child protection services, making her an inspiring figure in the state’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its youngest citizens.
Kristi Burre’s journey in child welfare began at the county level, where she dedicated nearly 20 years to serving children and families in Fairfield and Franklin Counties. Her extensive experience at the grassroots level equipped her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children in the welfare system, as well as the needs of the families involved. This hands-on experience would later inform her work at the state level, where she took on increasingly influential roles.
Her commitment to improving the lives of children in Ohio led her to state service, where she first served as the Director of the Office of Children Services Transformation at the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). In this role, Kristi Burre was instrumental in leading efforts to reform child welfare practices across the state. She focused on reducing the number of children entering foster care and prioritized family reunification whenever possible. Her work underscored the importance of keeping families together, recognizing that children thrive best in stable, supportive family environments.
Burre’s leadership was further recognized when she was appointed as the Director of Children’s Initiatives for Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. In this role, she continued her advocacy for children’s well-being, working closely with state officials to implement policies that prioritized the safety and security of Ohio’s children. One of her key contributions was her work on the Family First Prevention Services Act, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at preventing children from entering foster care by providing families with the necessary support and services to address issues before they escalate.
In addition to her state service, Kristi Burre’s commitment to child welfare extends to her role in education and training. She continues to serve on the senior faculty of the Safe & Together Institute, where she works as a trainer and coach. Her expertise as an executive coach with the Ohio Child Welfare Training Program further highlights her dedication to equipping child welfare professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed.
Burre’s academic achievements are as impressive as her professional ones. She holds a triple bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Psychology, and Criminology from Capital University, and a master’s degree in Sociology from Ohio University. This strong educational foundation has undoubtedly contributed to her ability to navigate the complex challenges of child welfare with insight and empathy.
Most recently, Kristi Burre joined Kinnect, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for child protection to the organization. Her ongoing work with Kinnect continues her legacy of advocating for children and families, ensuring that every child in Ohio has the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.
Kristi Burre’s career is a testament to what can be achieved with unwavering dedication and a clear vision for the future of child welfare. Her work has not only improved the lives of countless children and families but has also set a standard for excellence in the field of child protection. As we spotlight her contributions this week, we celebrate her tireless efforts to make Ohio a safer, more supportive place for its children.
