DENVER (March 14, 2025) — After serving the State of Colorado for 30 years, including as the director of the Division of Youth Services within the Colorado Department of Human Services for the past nine years, Anders Jacobson plans to retire on May 1.
“Anders Jacobson’s commitment to Colorado youth and families is unprecedented. He has worked tirelessly to uplift the youth in our care through safe, educational and innovative services and programming,” said Michelle Barnes, executive director of CDHS. “Jacobson’s efforts to protect, restore and improve public safety by using a continuum of care are to be commended.”
Jacobson joined the Division of Youth Services 25 years ago and became division director in 2016, and he has held a variety of roles. Jacobson began his career in public service as a direct care staff, then moved into middle management, facility administration and associate director.
“Each of these roles was more rewarding than I could have ever imagined. Along the way, I worked with countless professionals across the state and witnessed firsthand the dedication, expertise and heart that CDHS has for serving young people,” said Jacobson. “This has been more than just a workplace for me. It has been my professional calling.”
As division director, Jacobson shepherded in several sweeping changes to offer innovative services to youth in care, including the implementation of homelike environments, the Sanctuary Model, and a "smaller is better" focus. As a result of these updates, the National Commission on Correctional Health Care honored the entire division with the Program of the Year award in 2022. That put Colorado at the forefront of integrated and comprehensive medical and behavioral health services, a tremendous honor typically reserved for a single U.S. facility.
Several national organizations have also honored Jacobson for his achievements.
- In 2023, the Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators honored him with the Juvenile Justice Administrators President’s Award for his unwavering commitment to juvenile justice reform and extraordinary leadership.
- In 2024, the Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators appointed Jacobson board president.
- Jacobson received the CDHS Public Service Recognition Award in 2024 for his leadership and enhancements to the Division of Youth Services.
Jacobson has led the nation in building a better system for juvenile justice-involved youth. Colorado has one of the lowest youth recidivism rates nationwide, has drastically reduced fights and use of restraints, and is nationally recognized for reducing the use of seclusion.
CDHS is prioritizing efforts to find the right person to build on Jacobson’s successes. As this is a critical position, Deputy Executive Director Perry May will serve as the lead over the division as Jacobson transitions. During this time, May and Jacobson will be working closely to ensure the facilities continue to operate safely and deliver quality services, while supporting staff.
The Colorado Department of Human Services supports people and families by connecting them with assistance, resources and support at every stage of their lives. We serve Coloradans through bold and innovative health and human services. And together, we empower Coloradans to thrive.
Media contact:
AnneMarie Harper, Director of Communications
601.566.9271
annemarie.harper@state.co.us