John Stevenson’s long career with the State of Delaware began at the age of 19, as a food service worker at the Delaware Home & Hospital for the Chronically Ill in the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS). In 1987, he took a position as a Youth Care Specialist at Ferris School in Wilmington within the Department of Services of Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF). From the moment he walked through the doors of Ferris School, it was undeniable John was someone special. We were privileged he chose to dedicate decades of service to DSCYF.

John worked in various capacities across DSCYF divisions, making an impact every step of his journey. After his time at Ferris, he transferred to Brenford Residential Treatment Center in the Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health Services, where he quickly became the Youth Rehabilitation Counselor Supervisor. Later, he accepted a position with the Early Intervention Unit at Bancroft Elementary School as a Family Crisis Therapist with the Division of Family Services. After that, he returned to the Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health Services where he honed his leadership skills as the program manager for the Terry Children’s Center until he was promoted to Superintendent of the Stevenson House Detention Center.

After retiring with 25 years of service with the State of Delaware in 2015, John accepted a position with the Office of Commitment Facilities for the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. DSCYF was extremely fortunate when John agreed to return to the Department and become Director of the Division of Youth Rehabilitative Services in 2018. As Director, John fiercely advocated for and built one of the most progressive juvenile justice systems in the nation. John was a skilled, thoughtful, and compassionate leader who exemplified excellence, both personally and professionally. John’s face lit up whenever he recalled stories of the youth and families he connected with through the years. His empathy and passion for helping others were unwavering. Additionally, you could always count on John for a smile to lift you out of the darkest of times; John was an authentic, talented, and caring person who radiated goodness.

John Stevenson has left quite a legacy, and we wish his loved ones strength, support and grace. To honor his memory, we will continue to build upon his work today and for years to come.