FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
OKLAHOMA CITY, Sept. 20, 2022— Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat has appointed Colleen Johnson to the Oklahoma Board of Juvenile Affairs. She started her duties immediately.
The nine-member board is the rulemaking body for the Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA). Its other duties include approving OJA’s annual budget request, assisting staff with priorities and policies of the agency and establishing procedures and payment rates for contracting agencies.
Johnson replaces Sidney Ellington, who resigned earlier this year to serve on the Oklahoma Veterans Commission. The president pro tempore of the Senate and the speaker of the House of Representatives each appoint two members to the OJA board, and the governor appoints five members.
“I appreciate Pro Tem Treat giving me this opportunity to serve our state,” said Johnson. “I care deeply about the needs of adolescents and helping them succeed and grow. I’m excited about working with the other members on the board and staff as OJA focuses more on rehabilitation and treatment of the youth in our care. This enhances public safety by our youth having a better chance of success when they return to their local communities.”
Johnson is a vendor in the health care industry. Her volunteer work includes helping with the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, serving as president of Christ the King Catholic School PTO and on the school’s advisory council, and assisting with the Bishop McGuinness High School performing arts program.
“Colleen is an experienced leader who has spent her career managing and leading teams,” Treat said. “She has also admirably served her community in several capacities. I know Colleen will be a wonderful addition and advocate to the Office of Juvenile Affairs board.”
“I appreciate Pro Tem Treat’s appointment of Colleen Johnson to our board,” said OJA Executive Director Rachel Holt. “She will be a great addition to our exceptional board that holds us accountable while supporting our agency, and our mission and vision. Colleen will be a strong advocate for youth and families, and help us support thriving families and safe communities through holistic and individualized treatment. I look forward to her learning about the dynamic work of our staff and community partners and having her impact our continued goal to be trauma-informed and hope-centered.”
Johnson earned a Bachelor of Science degree in family relations and child development from Oklahoma State University. She and her husband have five teenage daughters.
###
Colleen Johnson
