Governor-Elect Abigail Spanberger’s office has appointed Daryl Washington, Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board Executive Director, to be Commissioner of Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services under her administration. The announcement came from Governor-Elect Spanberger’s office.
“I am honored to accept Governor-Elect Spanberger’s nomination. I am excited for the opportunity to serve the people of Virginia in this new capacity,” shared Daryl Washington.
“It was truly a privilege to work alongside the dedicated team at CSB, community partners, and Fairfax County colleagues to provide the vital support and resources we offer our community. We have come a long way in ensuring that everyone has the support they need to live their healthiest life.”
Mr. Washington joined Fairfax County in 1996. He is an experienced behavioral health and developmental disability leader, administrator and clinician. Mr. Washington has provided dedicated leadership to the CSB, serving as Executive Director since 2018 and Deputy Director of Clinical Operations for the five years prior to that.
“We are thrilled to learn of this appointment, not only for Daryl, but for the people of Virginia. Mr. Washington is a committed public servant who is dedicated to expanding and enhancing behavioral health services,” shared Chris Leonard, Fairfax County Health and Human Services Deputy County Executive. “I want to thank him for his leadership in driving innovative care as well as rising to meet the significant challenges brought about by the nationwide opioid epidemic and the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Mr. Washington will step down from his service to Fairfax County on January 16, 2026.
Barbara Wadley-Young, PhD, MSW, will serve as the Acting CSB Executive Director. Dr. Wadley-Young is currently CSB Deputy Director of Clinical Operations and has worked in the CSB for a combined total of 20 years, as well as in the private sector. She is a seasoned executive leader in behavioral health and developmental services.
The search for the next Executive Director will begin soon and details will be shared on the Fairfax County career website.
Contact for media inquiries: CSBCommunications@fairfaxcounty.gov.