Oklahoma Human Services celebrates confirmation of Director Jeffrey Cartmell

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (May 27, 2025) – Oklahoma Human Services is pleased to announce the confirmation of Jeffrey Cartmell as its agency director.

"I am truly honored to serve as the director of Oklahoma Human Services. Our mission to empower and uplift children and families across our state is both a profound responsibility and an extraordinary opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting difference. I am eager to work with our dedicated team to drive positive change and strengthen the lives of Oklahomans for generations to come,” Cartmell said.

Governor Kevin Stitt appointed Cartmell Aug. 28, 2024, and he officially began serving in the role Sept. 16, 2024. Since this time, he’s led a concerted effort to instill the pillars of accountability, compassion and excellence across the agency. Cartmell has also continued to build on the momentum at Oklahoma Human Services and maintain a commitment to the programs and resources that support the Governor’s top ten vision.

"I was proud to carry the confirmation of Jeffrey Cartmell to serve as Director of Oklahoma Human Services. Jeffrey is not only a dedicated public servant whose leadership, experience, and heart for service make him uniquely qualified to lead DHS through this critical moment of growth and reform, but also someone I consider a friend,” said Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond. “I have known him for over a decade and have seen him grow in his profession. Jeffrey is a great leader and someone of high character and values. His commitment to improving outcomes for Oklahoma families, children and our most vulnerable citizens is evident in every step he’s taken in his career. I am confident he will bring steady leadership and a results-driven approach to one of our state’s most vital agencies.”

In 2024, more than 1.5 million children and families received essential resources from Oklahoma Human Services that empowered their independence and strengthened their sense of hope.

Prior to his current role, Governor Stitt appointed Cartmell as the executive director of the Office of Juvenile Affairs in 2023. He has also served as counselor to Secretary of State Brian Bingman and as deputy general counsel to the Governor 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.

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