OKLAHOMA CAPITOL --- Debbie Williams, a 34-year veteran of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, has been named Area II Director.

In her new position, Williams will oversee the daily operations of OKDHS offices in 17 counties, including: Caddo, Carter, Cleveland, Comanche, Cotton, Garvin, Grady, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Jefferson, Kiowa, Love, McClain, Murray, Stephens and Tillman.

“I’m very glad to have Debbie in this position,” said Jean Derry, OKDHS Field Operations. “She brings a wealth of experience in county administration to Area II and will be a valuable addition to the management of field operation for this agency.”

Williams began her career with OKDHS as a Clerical Worker at the OKDHS office in Pontotoc County. She later served as an Eligibility Worker before becoming a Social Worker. She then worked in Child Welfare before serving as a Social Services Supervisor. Williams also served as the County Director for Murray County for 17 years and in Cleveland County since Sept. 2001.

“During my 34 years with OKDHS I’ve been given lots of opportunities to make a difference and this is the biggest,” said Williams. “The staff in Cleveland County have been great and I’m glad I’ll be able to continue to work with them. I’m also looking forward to working with the counties of southwestern Oklahoma and supporting them as they continue to offer the best quality services to their communities.”

Williams graduated from Latta High School and received her bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Special Education from East Central University, Ada. She later received her master’s in Social Work Administration and Program Planning from the University of Oklahoma, Norman.

Williams has two children, Amanda, 23, a nurse in Dallas, and Alison, 20, who works for an abstract company in Purcell. 

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