Bryan Larison Appointed to Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth

Gov. Kevin Stitt has appointed Bryan Larison, CEO of Lions Meadows of Hope, to the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth (OCCY). Larison will represent Oklahoma Children’s Agencies and Residential Enterprises on the Commission, succeeding Ginarie Harrington.

Larison brings more than 20 years of experience as a mental health professional. As CEO of Lions Meadows of Hope, he has transformed the agency from a group home for adolescent boys to a foster care agency serving children of all ages across Oklahoma.

“I am honored to be appointed and look forward to working with the Commission to help improve the lives of Oklahoma’s children and families,” Larison said.

Larison is a licensed professional counselor with a master’s degree in counseling from Oklahoma State University. He has completed trauma-informed care training through institutions, including the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology, and the Integrative Psychiatry Institute.

In addition to his professional work, Larison serves on the boards of several organizations, including Healthy Communities Healthy Children, Resilient Payne County, and Oklahoma Children’s Agencies and Residential Enterprises. He is also an active member of the Lions Club of Oklahoma and an alumnus of Leadership Oklahoma.

“Bryan Larison’s dedication to serving children and families and his depth of experience will bring an important perspective to the Commission,” said Annette Wisk Jacobi, OCCY executive director. “His insight will help guide efforts to address the challenges facing Oklahoma’s children and families.”

About OCCY and the Role of Commissioners:

Established in 1982, the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth works to improve outcomes for children, youth, and families through accountability and independent oversight of the state’s child service systems. OCCY enhances services by fostering collaboration and communication among communities, public agencies, and private organizations.

Key programs include the Oklahoma Child Death Review Boards, Post Adjudication Review Boards, Freestanding Multidisciplinary Teams, the Office of Planning and Coordination, and the Office of Juvenile System Oversight.

OCCY Commissioners approve strategic plans, coordinate interagency efforts, and provide recommendations to the governor, legislature, and child-focused organizations. Commissioners serve without compensation for up to four two-year terms.

Click here to download Commissioner Larison's photo.