In this episode of #SupportVaKids, host Mariellen Keely sits down with Terry Gates, Senior Analyst on the Data Informs Team at Virginia Child Support. With over 30 years of service, Terry brings a unique blend of field experience, policy knowldge, and a deep commitment to using data to improve outcomes for families.

Terry shares his journey from case management in local offices to leading the development of performance reports that shape how the agency operates. He discusses the importance of building systems that outlast individuals, why safeguarding data matters, and how the team is improving access to meaningful information through new tools and automation. Most of all, he emphasizes that behind every report is a desire to help people—whether they’re families in need or frontline staff making tough decisions every day.