Governor Stitt Announces Jeffrey Cartmell as Executive Director of Juvenile Affairs, Thanks Rachel Holt for her Service
Today, Governor Kevin Stitt announced the appointment of Jeffrey Cartmell as Executive Director of the Office of Juvenile Affairs and thanked outgoing Director Rachel Holt for her service.
"Jeffrey is an unwavering proponent of justice with a deep understanding of the complexities facing our youth, and I'm proud to appoint him as the next director of Juvenile Affairs," said Governor Stitt. "I'm confident Jeffrey will champion a bright future for our youth and ensure they have every opportunity to thrive in our state."
Before assuming his current role as Counselor to the Secretary of State in 2021, Cartmell served as Deputy General Counsel under Governor Stitt for two years. Between 2017 and 2019, Cartmell worked in the private sector as an associate attorney at Lytle Soule & Curlee after serving two years as a division director within the Office of Management and Enterprise Services. Cartmell was a Deputy General Counsel to former Governor Mary Fallin from 2012 and 2014.
"Serving Governor Stitt, Secretary Bingman, and my home state has been one of the great honors of my life," said Cartmell. "I'm proud of the accomplishments we've made together and I deeply appreciate the opportunity to continue serving my fellow Oklahomans as part of the Stitt Administration. I look forward to joining the great team at the Office of Juvenile Affairs and working to protect and empower young Oklahomans."
Cartmell earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Writing and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma in 2009 and 2012, respectively. Cartmell became an adjunct professor of law at his alma mater in 2021, teaching a seminar course on government law.
Governor Stitt expressed his gratitude for outgoing director Rachel Holt, who has dedicated her entire professional career to the juvenile justice system and making the agency one of the top in the nation: "Rachel is a dedicated leader and a fierce advocate for the rehabilitation of Oklahoma's youth," said Governor Stitt. "I'm deeply appreciative of her efforts and I know her legacy of service will continue to inspire us all. I wish Rachel the best as she takes over as president and CEO of United Way of Central Oklahoma.”
“I have loved my time at the Office of Juvenile Affairs, and I am proud of our work to be a top ten agency,” said outgoing Director Holt. “I look forward to working with Jeffrey during this transition and I will be cheering him and OJA on as they continue their vital work.”
Cartmell’s appointment is effective October 21, 2023, and he will serve pending Senate confirmation in the 2024 legislative session.
