Posted March 19, 2025

Amy Popovich brings over a decade of experience leading strategic, community-driven initiatives in Richmond designed to support and empower residents.

Today, the City of Richmond announced the appointment of Amy Popovich as the next Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services. Amy brings over a decade of experience leading strategic, community-driven public health initiatives in Richmond. Previously, as Nurse Manager for the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts, she oversaw a team of over 100 clinical staff and spearheaded programs that bridged the gap between public health and community needs. From leading COVID-19 response efforts to launching initiatives in school health, newcomer services, and chronic disease prevention, her work is rooted in collaboration, advocacy, and impact.

"I am so excited for Amy to add her incredible depth of compassion, collaboration, and expertise to the City of Richmond," said Mayor Danny Avula. "I've seen firsthand what she can accomplish and the level of servant leadership she brings to a team. I can't think of a better person to step in, hit the ground running, and lead our Human Services portfolio."

The City's Human Services portfolio includes the Office of Community Wealth Building; the Department of Justice Services; the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services; the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Facilities; the Department of Social Services; and the Richmond Public Library. Together, these agencies enhance economic stability and improve health outcomes and the overall wellbeing of Richmonders across all stages of life.

"I'm very familiar with the work Amy has done throughout her career, especially here in the 7th District. The departments that make up the City's Human Services portfolio serve residents all across Richmond, including some of the most vulnerable, and I have no doubt Amy will build on her experience and thrive in her new role as DCAO for Human Services," said City Council President Cynthia I. Newbille.

Amy succeeds departing DCAO Traci DeShazor, who has led the Human Services portfolio since 2023. DeShazor oversaw the portfolio during a critical period, including the development of the Southside Community Center, the establishment of Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, the opening of the Community Resource Center, and an expansion and deepening of the City's shelter response.

Amy will start at the City on April 28. Director of Social Services Shunda Giles will serve as Acting DCAO in the interim.

Support for Amy

 "I can't think of a more qualified and collaborative community leader to be the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services at the City of Richmond than Amy. I have known and collaborated with her for 15 years. She's amazing and will do an excellent job." - Karen Legato, Executive Director, Health Brigade

"I am looking forward to working with Amy Popovich in her role as Richmond's DCAO for Human Services. Her experience managing regional public health programs coupled with her dedication to establishing innovative partnerships to address socioeconomic issues encountered by residents in Central Virginia will provide a strong foundation for this role. Amy is a servant leader whose quest to put people first has helped her excel throughout her career." - Sheryl Garland, Chief of Health Impact, VCU Health System

"Over her decades-long career, Amy has proven that there is no one solution to tackling public health issues. She knows how to draw on the strengths of a community and listen to residents to ensure that a diversity of needs can be addressed across our City. Her experience in crisis, collaboration, and coordinating asset-based community networks is a step forward for our citizens - especially those who are ready for economic mobility and want access to resources to ensure a safe and thriving life in Richmond." - Rupa Murthy, CEO, YWCA Richmond

"I am excited for the City and the region to have Amy in this role. We've worked together for years in her previous role, and I look forward to us continuing to work to serve the needs of vulnerable communities. Amy understands the power of collective impact and knows that we are stronger and better when we collaborate to solve complex issues in the region." - Monica Smith-Callahan, Deputy County Manager for Community Affairs, Henrico County

"Amy is an exceptional leader and a true force for good. Her new position will allow her to have a tremendous impact on improving the lives of all Richmonders." - Rob Winn, Director, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center

About Amy Popovich: With a passion for community health and a commitment to advancing equitable healthcare access, Amy has spent over 15 years leading innovative public health initiatives in Richmond, VA. As Nurse Manager for the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts, she oversaw a team of over 100 clinical staff and spearheaded programs that bridged the gap between public health and community needs. From leading COVID-19 response efforts to launching initiatives in school health, newcomer services, and chronic disease prevention, her work will continue to be rooted in collaboration, advocacy, and impact.

A strategic leader and systems thinker, Amy has successfully managed multi-million-dollar budgets, cultivated cross-sector partnerships, and co-founded the Richmond Henrico Public Health Foundation to enhance public health funding and sustainability. In 2011, in partnership with local philanthropy, she launched a Community Health Worker (CHW) initiative in Richmond. Through her leadership at the Virginia Department of Health, this effort has expanded statewide, leading to the creation of a statewide CHW certification program and securing $3.2 million in annual state funding.

Recognized with the YWCA Outstanding Women's Award for Health & Science and the American Public Health Nurses Association Award of Merit, she is dedicated to shaping the future of community health through evidence-based, people-centered approaches.