Governor Scott Appoints Samantha Sweet as New Deputy Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Mental Health.
The Vermont Department of Mental Health is proud to welcome Samantha Sweet as the new Deputy Commissioner. Sweet, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, brings over two decades of experience in the mental health field to this role. Her career, dedicated to enhancing mental health services in Vermont, began as a Case Manager at West Suburban Elder Services in Watertown, Massachusetts, and advanced through various roles at the Howard Center in Burlington, Vermont. In 2004, she joined Northwestern Counseling & Support Services in St. Albans, Vermont, where she served as Community Rehabilitation and Treatment Services (CRT) Team Leader and later as CRT Director.
In 2018, Sweet joined the Department of Mental Health as the Care Management Director/Operations Director. She was promoted to Director of Mental Health Services in 2021, where she led significant initiatives, including the implementation of the Statewide Enhanced Mobile Crisis and the development of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in Vermont.
"Samantha will continue to support the Department's work with her systems expertise and deep understanding of state operations," said Department of Mental Health Commissioner Emily Hawes. "We are thrilled about the opportunity for Samantha to bring her experience and vision to this leadership role."
As Deputy Commissioner, Sweet will assist in overseeing and managing Vermont’s mental health system of care, focusing on integrating substance use and physical healthcare with mental health services and enhancing the crisis system of care.
“I am honored to step into the role of Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Mental Health,” said Sweet. “I look forward to continuing to work with our outstanding team to improve and expand mental health services for Vermonters, ensuring our community receives the care and support they deserve.”
Governor Scott Appoints Kristin Calver as New Deputy Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Corrections.
The Vermont Department of Corrections is proud to welcome Kristin Calver as the new Deputy Commissioner. Calver, a veteran employee of the Department of Corrections, began her career in 2004 at the Barre Probation and Parole Office and most recently served as Executive Director of Finance. She will immediately assume the Deputy position.
“Kristin has long been a widely trusted and respected leader within our department,” said Commissioner Nick Deml. “She leads with compassion and a deep commitment to those we serve. I look forward to serving alongside Kristin in her new role to improve our department and position our state’s correctional system as the standard for the nation.”
During her tenure, Calver has championed numerous initiatives, including a new strategic plan, staff wellness projects, and the stewardship of the Department’s $200 million budget. As Deputy Commissioner, she will support the Commissioner in meeting the Department’s statutory, regulatory, and policy obligations and lead the Department’s executive leadership team.
“I am thrilled to serve the State of Vermont in this new capacity,” said Deputy Commissioner Calver. “Vermont’s correctional system is at a pivotal moment as we work to transform our health system, reimagine reentry services, and find innovative ways to grow and support Vermont’s diverse workforce of correctional professionals. I look forward to getting to work.”
About the Department of Mental Health
The Vermont Department of Mental Health has a critical mission to improve the conditions and well-being of all Vermonters across the state and protect those who cannot protect themselves.
For more information, visit mentalhealth.vermont.gov.
About the Department of Corrections
The Vermont Department of Corrections creates safety and equity by seeing potential, supporting change, and serving communities.
For more information, visit doc.vermont.gov.