When she began working for the Arkansas Department of Human Services/Division of Children and Family Services in 2009, Tiffany (Willms) Wright '09 set herself a goal of one day becoming director of the division.

She realized that goal in May of 2023 when she was promoted to Director of Division of Children and Families. “I remember when I started in 2009, I said that being a director is what I wanted,” she said. “It’s been almost a year and it’s been hard, but rewarding. I get to lead a division of 1,100 employees and demonstrate that as a state, we value children, families, and communities and are striving for excellence everyday. Children and families deserve our best.”

A native of Columbus, Nebraska, Tiffany followed in the footsteps of her mother, Pam, when she chose to attend Midland. She felt an instant rapport as a Criminal Justice major. “Dr. (Bill) Staley was my academic advisor and his reputation and desire to impact the world of Criminal Justice made choosing Criminal Justice an easy decision for me,” she said. 

Following graduation, she relocated to Arkansas and began work as a Family Service Worker for the Division of Children and Family Services. The foundation for the important work she has been doing for families for 15 years was established during her time at Midland. “Through all the curriculum and the ability to have employment and internships while getting my degree, it gave me a perspective I can still apply to this day,” she said. “I started out wanting to be in law enforcement or a probation officer, but after working at the Dodge County Jail and having an internship with victim services, plus working at Boys Town, I knew I had to do more. Dr. Staley was brutally honest when it came to coaching on career decisions and what to do next. Midland shaped me in values, challenged me, and gave me an opportunity to determine my path.”

Tiffany is grateful to her parents, Robert and Pam Stephens, as well as her husband, Ezra, who have been her greatest supporters. She is also proud of the memories she carries with her from her time at Midland. “Midland is a super special place,” she said. “I think what I enjoyed  the most was the relationships that were formed. In some fashion, we were all connected, especially within our degree choice. I always felt at home and that people cared about me.”

In her down time, Tiffany enjoys reading fiction and hiking. She also began running a few years ago and serves as vice president of a local running club.

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