Summary:
Robert Tagalicod celebrates diversity and inclusion at a local Pride Parade.
A Message from the Chief of Staff to the HHS Assistant Secretary for Administration.
At eight years old, my mother told me, “You’re going to make a difference in this world.” Those words have shaped my journey, whether it was foresight or a mother’s wish.
Public service is in my blood. My grand uncle was among the first Filipino senators after World War II, stepping into leadership just as the Philippines gained independence on July 4, 1946, a moment solidified by the Treaty of Manila with the United States. On my father’s side, my family fought for justice on the front lines of Hawaii’s labor movement by advocating for sugar cane plantation workers. With such powerful legacies as my guide, the family motto of “Be a person for others” became more than words—it became my mission.
Years later, I answered the call to public service—driven to make a real impact where it was needed most. I sought out those which society too often forgets—people with disabilities, communities of color battling HIV/AIDS, and underserved populations in rural areas. Witnessing these struggles up close, whether walking into community health centers or working on the frontlines at the border, I knew I’d found my true purpose.
Those moments of connection fueled my drive to join HHS nearly 20 years ago. I saw the Department as a platform to tackle the deep-rooted inequalities in our healthcare system. Today, as Chief of Staff to Assistant Secretary for Administration Cheryl R. Campbell, I play a pivotal role in shaping policies that guide over 90,000 employees working to improve the health and well-being of Americans.
But passion alone isn’t enough. To truly move the needle, you need data—clear, precise, actionable data. This is why I’ve championed Principle 5 of our DEIA Strategic Plan: “Strengthened DEIA Insights Through Improved Data,” recognizing that data is the key to driving meaningful change.
Working across divisions, I’ve collaborated with teams to gather the data needed to understand our workforce better. This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. It’s about finding and removing barriers to ensure everyone at HHS has a fair shot at success. As a gay Asian Pacific Islander American, I know the power of an inclusive environment. Our workforce should reflect the communities we serve, and we’re making that a reality with better data.
Good data also helps us craft strategies that allow every employee to thrive. It’s about more than just getting people in the door—it’s about helping them grow. Doing this right creates a better workplace and a more effective HHS fully equipped to fulfill its mission.
Reflecting on my time at HHS, I’m inspired by our progress. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but we’re cultivating opportunities, much like my ancestors who nurtured growth in the plantations of Hawai’i. If we keep tending to our efforts and sharing resources, I’m confident we can make this progress as resilient as the rebuilding of a nation after war, just as my family did. DEIA isn’t merely an initiative—it’s our roadmap to reaching those who’ve been ignored or pushed aside. It’s how we create a future where everyone can thrive. When everyone’s best self is welcome, we truly become “a person for others”—and that’s how we make a difference.
"Imagine an organization where every voice matters and every perspective fuels innovation. That's our future—where diversity drives us to new heights and impacts the world."
Robert S. Tagalicod
Chief of Staff
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration
Department of Health and Human Services
Continuing our DEIA journey
The DEIA journey is a continuous process of learning and improvement. Committing to DEIA is not just the right thing to do—it is the smart thing to do. It makes HHS a stronger federal agency, a more effective leader and partner in advancing the health of the nation, and an attractive home for the nation’s best and brightest talent.
Leadership change stories will evolve as we collaborate across HHS and make shared progress. We will move forward with a focus on continuous improvement and addressing existing and emerging leadership needs.
For questions, resources, or additional information, please email DEIAStrategicPlan@hhs.gov.
