Crittenden: A Career of Public Service and Legal Leadership in Georgia
With a distinguished background in law and public administration, Crittenden has held several of the most critical leadership roles within the state of Georgia. From managing human services to overseeing state revenue and elections, her career is defined by a commitment to legal excellence and governmental efficiency.
Educational Foundation and Early Legal Career
Crittenden's professional journey began with a rigorous academic foundation. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Yale University and subsequently obtained her Juris Doctor (a professional degree in law) from the University of Michigan Law School.
Before transitioning into high-level state appointments, she built a diverse legal portfolio. Her experience includes serving as the general counsel for Morehouse College, the assistant vice chancellor for legal affairs for the Georgia Board of Regents, and an assistant county attorney for DeKalb County, Georgia.
Leadership in Georgia State Government
Crittenden's transition into executive leadership began in 2015 when Governor Nathan Deal appointed her as the commissioner of the Department of Human Services. This role placed her at the helm of the state's primary agency for social services.
Her versatility as a leader was further demonstrated on November 8, 2018. Following the resignation of Brian Kemp, Governor Deal appointed Crittenden as the 28th Secretary of State to complete the remainder of the term.
After completing her tenure as Secretary of State, she returned to her previous role as the commissioner of the Georgia Department of Human Services. Her trajectory of leadership continued in June 2021, when Governor Kemp appointed her to lead the Georgia Department of Revenue, succeeding David Curry, who left the position to run for the U.S. Congress.
Key Facts
- Education: BA from Yale University; JD from University of Michigan Law School.
- Secretary of State: Served as the 28th Secretary of State of Georgia.
- Revenue Leadership: Current lead of the Georgia Department of Revenue as of June 2021.
- Human Services: Served two separate terms as commissioner of the Department of Human Services.
- Legal Background: Former counsel for Morehouse College and the Georgia Board of Regents.
Career Summary Table
| Role | Organization/Entity | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Commissioner | Department of Human Services | Appointed 2015; served multiple terms |
| 28th Secretary of State | State of Georgia | Appointed Nov 8, 2018 |
| Commissioner | Georgia Department of Revenue | Appointed June 2021 |
| General Counsel | Morehouse College | Legal leadership role |
| Assistant Vice Chancellor | Georgia Board of Regents | Legal affairs oversight |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Crittenden attend university?
Crittenden earned her Bachelor of Arts from Yale University and her Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School.
Which state agency does Crittenden currently lead?
As of June 2021, Crittenden leads the Georgia Department of Revenue.
How did Crittenden become the Secretary of State?
She was appointed as the 28th Secretary of State by Governor Nathan Deal on November 8, 2018, following the resignation of Brian Kemp.
What other legal roles has Crittenden held in Georgia?
She served as an assistant county attorney for DeKalb County and as the assistant vice chancellor for legal affairs for the Georgia Board of Regents.
Who did Crittenden succeed at the Georgia Department of Revenue?
She succeeded David Curry, who stepped down from the position to run for the U.S. Congress.