OKLAHOMA CITY (March 12, 2020)– Governor Kevin Stitt today named Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) Director Justin B. Brown as Secretary of Human Services and Early Childhood Initiatives. Brown replaces Steve Buck, who recently transitioned to the private sector after serving as cabinet secretary since November 2017.
"Justin is a high-energy leader with the passion and competency to improve outcomes for all Oklahomans,” said Gov. Stitt. “In his short time at OKDHS, Justin is being recognized locally and nationally as a leader of innovation in Human Services. Justin has created a culture of customer-focused service delivery and ‘True North’ strategic priorities to create stability and safety for all of our Oklahoma neighbors. I am excited for the work he will do in this cabinet position to improve the lives of our most vulnerable Oklahomans.”
As Secretary of Human Services and Early Childhood Initiatives, Brown will be responsible for a variety of agencies, boards and commissions, including Oklahoma Human Services, the Office of Juvenile Affairs, Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth, the Office of Disability Concerns, Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services and the J.D. McCarty Center.
“As Director of OKDHS, daily I am blown away by the level of service and dedication our employees have to our customers,” said Brown. “I am honored by this appointment and the opportunity to serve at an even deeper level to drive innovation, collaboration and partnerships among our agencies and partners. When we all serve together, we will truly solve problems for Oklahomans and make lasting impacts for generations to come.”