Nationally recognized child welfare expert to begin work June 16
OKLAHOMA CITY (May 14, 2025) - Michael C. Williams has been selected as the new Child Welfare Director at Oklahoma Human Services. Williams brings more than 25 years of progressive leadership in child welfare and behavioral health services to the position and will begin at the agency on June 16. Since 2019, Williams has served as the Deputy Commissioner of Operations for the Department of Children and Families in Hartford, Conn.
In this current role, Williams led the design and implementation of the Child Protection Practice Model, including introducing the Differential Response System. He has overseen the reform strategy for Connecticut’s Juvenile Justice services, a comprehensive statewide Racial Justice Strategy and many other initiatives.
“Every child in Oklahoma should have the chance to chase the American Dream,” said Gov. Kevin Stitt. “Michael Williams is the perfect person to advocate for the welfare of the children in Oklahoma and I’m proud to have him on board.”
William’s visionary leadership in Connecticut led to the creation of the Urgent Crisis Centers, Juvenile Justice Education Unit, Educational Professionals Investigations Unit, the first ever Director of Safety Practice and Performance position along with other systematic improvements for children and families. He also provided guidance and structure for response to the opioid and fentanyl crisis as well as the crisis in children's behavioral health.
“Every child in Oklahoma deserves a future where they are protected, supported and given every opportunity to thrive,” said Senator Paul Rosino, chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. “As our new child welfare director, Michael will be a driving force in continuing to build a system that prioritizes the well-being of children, empowers families and delivers meaningful, lasting transformation.”
Williams is known for his strong commitment to valuing the family voice, listening to the input of each individual that comes to his attention, and for challenging beliefs to ensure all information is considered before making a critical decision regarding a child and family.
“With Michael’s vision and leadership, we can continue to strengthen our child welfare system to better serve families and protect vulnerable children,” said Representative Daniel Pae, chair of the House of Representatives Human Services Subcommittee. “This is a defining moment in our state as we continue to build a brighter, more secure future for the children of Oklahoma.”
William’s distinguished record of service and expertise in the field make him an invaluable addition to the Oklahoma Human Services, according to Director Jeffrey Cartmell.
"We are honored to welcome Michael to our team,” Cartmell said. “As we continue building on the momentum of the Pinnacle Plan, this is one of the most critical roles in state government. His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring the highest standards of care and support for children and families. We look forward to the positive impact he will bring to families across Oklahoma. We are grateful to Andrea Buck for her leadership and dedication as Interim Child Welfare Director, as well as to our outstanding staff for their unwavering commitment during this nationwide search.”
Williams is a graduate of Northeast Louisiana University of Monroe, University of Connecticut School of Social Work, Trinity College of Vermont, and the University of Connecticut’s School of Business’ Executive Program in Managed Care. He is an ordained minister and previously served as Senior Pastor for local congregations in Hartford. Williams was an appointed member to the State of Connecticut’s Commission on Health Equity, served as a board member of the Bloomfield Board of Education and Black Administrators of Child Welfare, was a participant in the National Child Welfare Workforce Institute of the Leadership Academy of Deans and Directors, and a member of the Mayor’s Cabinet for Young Children.
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