The CWLA family joins so many in mourning the loss of a great leader and friend in MaryLee Allen. Our deep felt sympathies and prayers go out to her family and her colleagues at the Children’s Defense Fund. MaryLee was an inspiration and leader in human services and child welfare for many decades. Her knowledge, experience, compassion and caring has transformed and inspired the lives of so many both directly and indirectly as a lasting legacy to this country. The shadow she cast on behalf of children and families stretched through two centuries and we will be forever grateful and inspired. To her family we send our prayers and our lasting gratitude.