Maral Karaccusian Takes Oath as Director of the Aging & Disabilities Department

Maral Karaccusian was officially sworn in as Director of the Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) during a ceremony that highlighted her commitment to public service and the community she serves.

With family, friends, colleagues, and many County staff in attendance, Board of Supervisors Chair Hilda Solis administered the oath of office on March 23 at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration.

“I’m committed to serving with integrity, transparency, and a steadfast dedication to improving the lives of older adults and people with disabilities,” Karaccusian said after taking the oath. “I will work to honor the trust placed in me and ensure that our efforts have a lasting, positive impact.”

Karaccusian thanked the Board of Supervisors for their confidence and acknowledged the leadership of the Commission for Older Adults and the Commission on Disabilities.

She also spoke directly to AD staff, calling them the backbone of the organization and expressing her commitment to continue to learn from them. “Your work, often unseen but always essential, creates the foundation for progress,” she said. “I am inspired by your professionalism and your belief in our shared mission.”

Karaccusian reflected on the influence of her family and the values that shaped her commitment to service.

County leaders praised Karaccusian’s leadership and experience.

“Public service is a calling,” said Supervisor Holly Mitchell. “Your commitment to serving our most vulnerable communities is admirable.”

In recorded remarks, Supervisor Lindsay Horvath noted that Karaccusian is stepping into the role at a critical time and emphasized the importance of her experience.

“Your work in social services and public policy reflects the best of public service,” Horvath said.

Supervisor Janice Hahn highlighted Karaccusian’s role in the creation of the Aging & Disabilities Department and her longstanding commitment to its mission.

“Maral was there from the very beginning, at ground zero, as we worked to turn this idea of bringing all of our county resources and services for seniors under one roof,” Hahn recalled. “The idea behind this department was to serve our seniors and residents with disabilities, not just as a resource, but as a true support system. We wanted to create a department that also recognizes caregivers, who are so often overlooked.”

Hahn also praised Karaccusian’s work in helping implement L.A. Found, a program that brings together the Aging & Disabilities Department and law enforcement to provide trackable bracelets and other technologies used to locate individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, autism, or other cognitive issues who wander.

“With her leadership, L.A. Found has saved lives and continues to evolve with new technology to reach even more people,” Hahn added.

Supervisor Kathryn Barger recognized her work supporting communities, including Altadena residents affected by wildfire, and her contributions to educating future public servants as a professor of social work.

Before administering the oath, Supervisor Solis praised Karaccusian’s outreach to residents in unincorporated communities.

“She took the time to listen directly to residents,” Solis said.

Karaccusian closed her remarks by emphasizing the responsibility of her new role.

“Today is not just a milestone, it is a call to action,” she said. “A call to lead with purpose, listen with intention, and serve with heart.”

Watch the full ceremony or view photos from the event.