Julie Kruse

Julie Kruse is the Senior Advisor for LGBTQI+ Initiatives at the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In this role, she focuses on advancing policies and initiatives that support LGBTQI+ individuals and families, particularly in the context of child welfare and family services.23

Professional Background::

• Advocacy Experience: Julie has over 30 years of experience advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, tax fairness for working families, and economic and educational equity for women and girls. Her extensive background includes significant contributions to various federal policies aimed at improving conditions for marginalized communities.34
• Previous Roles: Before her current position, she served as a Federal Policy Advocate at the Family Equality Council, where she worked on issues affecting LGBTQ families during a politically challenging climate. Her advocacy efforts have led to important victories, including protections for LGBTQ immigrant families and the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" .12

Education:: Julie holds a master's degree in education from Northwestern University and graduated summa cum laude with distinction in honors biology from the University of Illinois.1

Personal Life:: She is also noted for her personal commitment to family, being a proud stepparent and grandparent.1

Her LinkedIn profile further highlights her dedication to creating equitable opportunities for all families, especially those within the LGBTQI+ community.3