New Oklahoma Child Welfare director introduces national experience, says he will prioritize safety and integrated services

Michael, Oklahoma's new Child Welfare Director, introduced himself to the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth on June 25 and outlined priorities that center on child safety, system integration and listening to youth with lived experience.

Michael described nearly 30 years of experience in child welfare across different state systems, including work in Connecticut and Florida, and participation in national initiatives such as Annie E. Casey Foundation efforts. "My strength is taking states from, like, good to great, building on what's there and say, how can we move a system forward?" he told commissioners.

He said he wants to coordinate children's services — child welfare, juvenile justice and children's behavioral health — so they work together around child well‑being rather than as fragmented adult‑focused systems. "If we find a way to consolidate our efforts around children and their well‑being...then the need for those other systems that the adult will shrink," Michael said. He added child protection and safety remain the primary mission: "If we can't keep children safe...then nobody wants to hear anything else."

Commissioners and attendees praised the hire and said they are ready to collaborate. Director Jacoby said she was "excited about what the future of child welfare, family well‑being, all of that looks like in Oklahoma" and noted Michael was still early in the job.

Michael also said he planned to spend time listening to older youth in care, including at an upcoming youth summit, because young people who have been in the system can provide actionable insight on placement, school challenges and what drives runaway behavior.

Ending: Commissioners welcomed Michael and offered cooperation from public and private partners; staff noted he was still early in his tenure and planned a listening tour to meet youth and providers across the state.