Several state agency leaders in Oklahoma are stepping down just months before a new governor takes office. Key departures include:
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Jeff Starling: Recently appointed as the Executive Director of the Hamm Institute for American Energy at Oklahoma State University, Starling resigned as the Secretary of the Oklahoma Department of Energy and Environment on October 3, following an unsuccessful campaign for Oklahoma Attorney General.
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Annie Vest: The Oklahoma Emergency Management Director is leaving on October 30 to pursue a role in the private sector. She had been appointed in December 2023. In her resignation letter to Governor Stitt, Vest emphasized her commitment to serve through the administration’s conclusion.
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Tim Gatz: The Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation announced his retirement effective October 31 after 37 years in the transportation sector. He served as ODOT Director since 2019 and as Transportation Secretary under Governor Stitt.
Governor Stitt has appointed interim replacements: Chris Schinnerer for Starling, John Dean for Vest, and TJ Dill for Gatz. As some administration members look toward future opportunities, the Governor expressed gratitude for their service to Oklahoma.
