May 2004

Servant Leader: Director Honored With National Public Service Award By Kevan Goff-Parker (Below) The Inside OKDHS Editor American Society Howard H. Hen- for Public Administration and drick, Oklahoma cabi- the National net secretary of Human Academy of Public Services and director Administration of OKDHS, has been recently called many things in recognized his time Ð attorney, OKDHS Director CPA, Senator and Howard H. Republican floor Hendrick with the leader, but most impor- prestigious tantly, son, brother, National Public Service Award. husband and dad. More recently, The Oklahoman described him in an editorial as “the per- sonification of the term ‘compassionate conservative.’ ” (Above) Sharon Neuwald, Ph.D., But perhaps the best way to describe coordinator, Office of Legislative Director Hendrick is by his style of Relations and Special Projects, and management at OKDHS. He is a ser- OKDHS Director Howard H. Hendrick vant leader. He leads with vision and review recent amendments to he serves with humility, constantly legislation affecting OKDHS. giving well-deserved credit to government. tal in providing critical leadership OKDHS’ more than 7,500 employees The award was presented, in as Oklahoma led the nation as the for the successes of the Agency. part, because of Director Hen- first state to develop and imple- For his dedicated service to drick’s leadership in spearheading ment the “Reaching for the Stars” Oklahomans, Director Hendrick efforts to expedite the adoption of program, a tiered-reimbursement was recently one of four leaders children in the child welfare system system designed to improve the nationwide to be honored with the by reorganizing the adoption quality and capacity of Okla- prestigious National Public Service process and increasing resources homa’s child-care facilities. He Award, co-sponsored by the Ameri- allocated for adoptions. Under his also authored the Literacy Im- can Society for Public Administra- direction, the Swift Adoption Pro- provement Act while serving as a tion (ASPA) and the National gram placed more children in adop- state senator for 12 years. Academy of Public Administration tive homes during the last five Rosslyn S. Kleeman, chair of (NAPA). The award is recognized years than in the previous 15 years the Awards Selection Committee, as the premier award for excellence combined. said this year’s winners represent the in public service at all levels of Hendrick has been instrumen- AWARD continued on page 4 The Chaplain’s Corner Older Americans Offer A Well Of Knowledge By Don Hunter have gone before me. Aunt Estell Volunteer Chaplain for Cleveland once told me, “You have to love to County and Child Welfare specialist live in order to have a life that you I, Cleveland County OKDHS love.” Those “cornerstones” of my My Grandma Hunter lived to be life, including my parents, are phys- in her early 90s, as did her sister, ically missing, but their impact on Aunt Estell. Some of my fondest my life is not. There is seldom a day memories center around time spent that passes that something they with those grand ladies. With sharp taught me or inspired me to learn is memories, each could paint a word not used. In our professions, we picture that could put today’s DVDs Don Hunter know that isn’t always the case. to shame. grew up in — the first automobiles, As we celebrate National Older They loved to share their life telephones coming to town, radio Americans Month, I challenge you adventures! I felt their joy in and TV. My generation was amazed to view what the “masters” have moments of success and victory and at the thought of man going to the taught each of us. If you know older felt their sorrow as they described moon; their generation at man being Americans, spend some time with the tragedies they had lived through. able to fly at all. them and draw from their well of I felt their excitement, astonishment, I was blessed with grandparents knowledge. Tell them how much wonder and sometimes fear as they and parents that shared. I know the they, and what they have accom- described the changing world they indescribable impact of those who plished, are appreciated. Nurses Week Seems Not Nearly Enough By Dustin D. Pyeatt nurses were the first in Oklahoma by 2012 to keep up with demand. Associate Editor to determine eligibility for a gov- This has posed a challenge for May ernment program for the Widows OKDHS to recruit and retain quali- 2 through Pensions of 1915. In the 1970s, fied registered nurses. 8 is nurses were employed by what was Norma Goff, R.N. and pro- nationally then called the Department of Insti- grams administrator in Aging Ser- recog- tutions Social and Rehabilitative vices, said there’s not one regis- nized as Services, to work in the Non-Tech- tered nurse in the last 10 years who Nurse’s nical Medical Care Program. has come to work for OKDHS Week, a Today, OKDHS employs 120 without taking a pay cut and time to registered nurses for the Long-Term turnover has been high for the last reflect on Care program in the Aging Services three years. all the accomplishments and contri- Division. A long way from practic- Nurses have served the public butions of nurses and the nursing ing their profession at a remote mil- in Oklahoma for more than 100 profession. But if one looks at the itary outpost on the frontier, nurses years and their profession is in history of nursing, seven days hard- with OKDHS now conduct assess- demand now more than ever. Given ly seems like enough time. ments for determining Medicaid that record, most would agree they The history of nursing in Okla- eligibility, serve as case managers deserve more than just a week. Our homa began in 1897 when nurses for personal care clients and as con- nurses deserve our respect and tended to young Native Americans sultants for Adult Protective Ser- appreciation. Take some time from who struggled with visual impair- vices. your day to thank these valuable ments at the School for the Blind in And today’s nurses are in high medical professionals for all the barracks of Ft. Gibson. In 1907, demand. The latest reports from the they’ve done and for all they do. nurses were called upon to aid U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics *Readers Note: Pyeatt’s moth- youth at the Oklahoma School for show that one million new and er, Sheila, worked for OKDHS as a the Deaf. And it’s believed that replacement nurses will be needed registered nurse for 20 years. 2 INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 From Analyst To Officer OKDHS Veteran Larry Harmon On Public Service In March, Oklahoma Department for advancement for those who have and how we were charged with being in of Human Services Chief Administra- prepared themselves for supervision, the forefront of developing computer tive Officer Larry Harmon spent some management and leadership positions. systems to support the work of the time with Inside OKDHS reflecting on The numbers eligible for retirement at Department. As a young information the successes and challenges of his 33 systems analyst, it was a good place for years in the Department. Space allows me to be. for only brief highlights from Harmon’s “I was quickly impressed with the insightful conversations and interviews state of technology. What was being on work, life, family and the future. said in the private sector and what actu- Putting his “Best Foot Forward,” ally was being done in government Harmon said it has been a long road were real different. from a welfare department information the county-director level is close to 70 “Mr. Rader (former OKDHS systems analyst to an executive officer, percent. Of course that will be true Director Lloyd E. Rader) was making but he has enjoyed the journey. Serving across the board in our society in many considerable investments of resources as Division Administrator for the Data management and leadership positions.” and funds to have the Department be on Services Division since 1992, Harmon On Technology — “I remember the cutting edge of information systems was appointed Associate Director for when I first started working in the Man- at that time. The investment in comput- Administration in July 1995, holding agement Information Division in 1970 HARMON continued on page 14 both the new position and DSD Admin- istrator concurrently. During an execu- tive restructuring of the organization, he was named Chief Administrative Offi- cer in October 2001, a position from which he retired on May 1. On Public Service — “I think that ‘Public Service’ is one of the most rewarding things a person can do pro- fessionally, especially human services. You won’t make a lot of money, but with the right attitude and commitment you can do work that contributes to the greater good.” On A Public Service Future — “The next three to five years are going to be the best place to be for many who are young and working in this organiza- tion. I would tell the young people look- ing for a rewarding career in public service that they couldn’t have a better place to work and serve a greater good. “Many (employees) like me (are) working in the leadership and manage- ment of the organization Ð I believe the numbers show 88 percent. (They) are OKDHS Administrative Officer Larry Harmon has always put his “Best Foot For- all eligible to retire by June 2007, which ward” for human services during the past 33 years. He retired May 1. Here, he means there will be lots of opportunities works with Administrative Programs Officer I Debby Guthrie on a project prior to his retirement.

INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 3 Radio Foster Care: KOMA’s Bob Sands By Dustin D. Pyeatt Associate Editor Bob Sands looked past the broad- cast booth and out the window of the front lobby at Renda Communications in Oklahoma City. His eyes were fixed and moist, and for a moment, this man with one of the most recognized voices in Oklahoma radio was silent. “I get kind of emotional where these kids are concerned,” he said in a softer tone than his listeners are used to hearing. Sands has been on the airwaves for 34 years, spending most of that time as a broadcast journalist, and today works as the News Director for KOMA. His For the children who are entering foster care for the first time, foster parent Bob Sands fast, firm and distinct voice has asked has some words of comfort, “In the vast majority of cases, the foster homes you’re tough questions, cut through scandals going into are caring, loving people who want to help. Take heart that it’s not your fault and delivered the news of the world on and that people are trying to do what’s best for you … be strong!” AM and FM across the state. But when worthwhile.” system, I shudder to think what it comes to the subject of abused and Sands and his wife still have con- would happen if OKDHS wasn’t neglected children, Sands’ journalistic tact with a few of their former foster there.” impartiality runs into personal passion. children. And even though they’ve had And Sands has a news flash for For almost five years, Sands and their challenges with OKDHS, they say those thinking of becoming a foster his wife, Sonyia, have been foster par- that one of the many rewards is seeing a parent. ents for children in OKDHS custody. To child go through the system and eventu- “Do it, just be prepared,” Sands date, they have fostered eight children ally become reunited with his or her said. “Realize going in that these are and are currently caring for four foster birth family. children who’ve experienced life like children. “I’ve found the people at you hope your children never will. “Sonyia used to run an after- OKDHS to be good folks,” Sands When these children show up, they’re school program at our church for at-risk said. “I’ve had really good case shell-shocked. But to see them a few children,” Sands said. “She had these workers and some borderline ones, weeks later, vibrant, alive and discov- three children in the program that had and though foster care is not a perfect ering their self-identity, it’s worth it.” three other siblings. She knew the child welfare worker who came to her and asked if we would consider becoming Award continued from page 1 foster parents for them.” Sands and his wife have no chil- finest public servants in our nation. “Receiving this award is deeply dren of their own, so becoming foster “Their tireless dedication to pro- humbling,” Hendrick said, smiling parents was a big change, but one he tecting and strengthening govern- and shaking his head as if surprised said he’s glad they made. ment deserves the highest recogni- by the gesture. “I’m just a guy doing “These children force me to be his job. What amazes me are the kind tion,” Kleenman said. younger when I’m older,” Sands said. of people we have working at “We used to just come home, eat and sit When interviewed by Inside OKDHS. on the couch and watch television, but OKDHS, Hendrick’s response to the “They come to work every day nothing is routine anymore. Now it’s National Public Service Award was and keep doing their jobs! And they constant interaction with bright, witty typically modest. He saves his enthu- keep this place going under very young minds. We have full lives and siasm for praising the employees of challenging fiscal conditions. these children have really made it OKDHS. They’re amazing!”

4 INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 Hissom Memorial Order Ends Court Supervision By Sheree Powell serves not only former Hissom resi- manager in the division’s Tulsa Director of Provider and dents, but more than 7,000 other office where most of the Hissom Community Relations Oklahomans with developmental dis- class members currently live, said DDSD abilities. that no one in the division realized On March 19, U.S. Senior Dis- “Starting from scratch, the state when the order was issued 19 years trict Judge James Ellison found has built a tremendous system of sup- ago what a history-making event it OKDHS to be in “substantial compli- ance” with a consent decree in a 19- year-old lawsuit that led to the clos- ing of one of the Department’s institutions for persons with develop- mental disabilities Ð the Hissom Memorial Center in Sand Springs. Ellison ordered the parties to collaborate on a permanent injunc- tion that will end 14 years of active court supervision of the case and the Developmental Disabilities Services Division’s community programs. DDSD Director James Nichol- son said the judge’s order represents the successful conclusion of years of effort by a great many people, many of whom are no longer with us. “Hundreds of dedicated people, public and private, literally have given the best years of their lives to Hissom Memorial Center in Sand Springs dated June 24, 1980. accomplish this task,” Nicholson said. “It is a great event for them, a ports and safeguards that enable peo- would turn out to be. great event for the state of Oklahoma ple to live in their communities and to “In the early years we struggled and for people with developmental remain connected to their families,” to achieve our ultimate outcomes, but disabilities and their families.” Nicholson said. “Many elements of a relentless commitment to seeing In 1990, Judge Ellison approved Oklahoma’s program represent cut- people with disabilities as people a consent decree that ordered ting edge service technology of first compelled us to work night and OKDHS to close the Hissom Memo- which the state can be justifiably very day to provide the best for each per- rial Center and move all of its 452 proud.” son we served,” Goin said. “I believe residents into community homes by Debbie Pumphrey, director of that for many of us, these life lessons October 1994. The order was issued DDSD Community Services, said carried over to our personal lives and as a result of a class-action lawsuit DDSD staff worked diligently after we can truly say that being a part of filed in 1985 by six parents calling the court’s order to develop a quality this mission changed us. The greatest themselves Homeward Bound Inc. community program for people with reward has been to play a small part The parents were dissatisfied with the developmental disabilities. in the successes of the individual services provided for their children at “We are elated about reaching class members and their families. Hissom. this milestone and will continue our “To see these individuals grow DDSD was successful in closing commitment to providing services into fully participating adults in their the center ahead of the court’s dead- which ensure the health and welfare communities and in many cases line, and moving the residents into of the people we serve and support become employed has been the community homes. In the process, their inclusion in their local commu- biggest thrill. To see the pride in their DDSD established a world-class nities,” Pumphrey said. homes and the reunification with community service system that today Jo Anne Goin, the DDSD area their families has been such a joy.”

INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 5 Bridgman: ‘Aging Services Employee Of The Quarter’ By Kevan Goff-Parker it wasn’t continued again until this Inside OKDHS Editor year. I was amazed and overwhelmed Giving never gets old in Carter by the response by the public because County … many people went above and beyond OKDHS’ Kim Bridgman, long- for senior citizens in our community.” term care registered nurse, Aging Ser- Bigger said she’s proud of Bridg- vices Division, has been named Carter man’s work with the Senior Santa Pro- County OKDHS’ “Aging Services ject because it did much to help the Employee of the Quarter.” Bridgman area’s senior citizens and received was given this honor for her work widespread support from the commu- coordinating the Senior Santa Project Ð nity. a venture that touched the lives of 42 “Many of our seniors who live OKDHS clients who receive either Carter County OKDHS recently alone, with limited family or who live Personal Care Services or who reside named Kim Bridgman “Aging Ser- in nursing homes with limited contact in local nursing homes. vices Employee Of The Quarter” for received personal care items, clothing Senior Santa is a 19-day project her outstanding work with their and a few sweets to make their Christ- that was conducted in conjunction with Senior Santa Project. mas a little brighter,” Bigger said. a Wal-Mart in Ardmore. The store Services Employee of the Quarter pin “This project was shown on the cable assisted by erecting a Christmas tree, during a recent Area II meeting of access channel, featured in a local offered store patrons the opportunity to long-term care nurses. newspaper and, again featured in a fol- get a Senior Santa tag that identified a “I was rather shocked,” Bridgman low-up article in the paper the day after recipient’s needs and handled the pur- said, “but it felt really nice that they Christmas. Our office had five tele- chase of gifts. thought my work with Senior Santa phone calls from local citizens com- Bridgman said Area II Nurse deserves that kind of recognition. mending the Senior Santa project for Laura “Lou” Bigger presented her with Carter County OKDHS sponsored ‘helping the elderly in need.’Way to go a certificate and an OKDHS Aging Senior Santa about four years ago, but Kim!” Childers Heads Pittsburg County Human Services Center By George Earl Johnson Jr. services centers. I am very excited about Laura “Lynn” Childers has this new opportunity and am looking assumed the duties of county director for forward to working with staff and com- Pittsburg County OKDHS. munity partners. OKDHS Area IV Director Bill “In these times of fiscal budget Wilson said employees in Area IV are restraints, it takes strong relationships pleased that Childers is taking on the with all of our community partners to new leadership role. meet the collective needs of our cus- “I have worked with her for years tomers. When we are working together, throughout southeastern Oklahoma, and we provide the quality of services our she knows how to get things done,” Wil- customers need, want and deserve.” son said. “She has done a fine job in the Childers graduated from Antlers counties she worked in before accepting High School in Pushmataha County. this position. I believe that her strength Laura “Lynn” Childers She earned a Bachelor of Science in of character and human services experi- center and served as OKDHS’ county Business Administration from South- ence will add value to the work being director in Johnston and Bryan counties, eastern Oklahoma State University in done in Pittsburg County.” respectively. Durant. Childers began her human services “I have loved working in the Childers’ husband, Gaylin, is a vet- career as a Family Support Services Department and will miss my friends eran OKDHS Family Support Services social worker in Pushmataha County 23 and co-workers in Bryan County,” supervisor in Coal County. She has a years ago. She has held social work and Childers said. “However, I am truly son, Sean, of Bartlesville, and a daugh- supervisor positions in the OKDHS excited about taking on this leadership ter, Melissa, who graduates in May from Washington County human services role in one of OKDHS’ larger human the University of Oklahoma in Norman.

6 INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 David Shafer Named Chief Administrative Officer By Kevan Goff-Parker Inside OKDHS Editor If the plaques and certificates on an employee’s wall indeed provide clues to a person’s character, then the Oklahoma Department of Human Ser- vices’ David Shafer is a man who has spent his 36-year career working hard at both “availability” and “decisiveness.” Such character-trait certificates were awarded to Shafer during the past several years while serving on OKDHS Director Howard H. Hendrick’s Execu- tive Team. Thus far, he’s been awarded one for “Availability” and two for “Decisiveness.” These traits should serve Shafer well as he takes up the reins as OKDHS’ new Chief Adminis- trative Officer managing the Office of Administration from retiring veteran OKDHS employee Larry Harmon. Har- mon retired May 1. The Office of Administration’s mission is to provide services to support OKDHS programs and promote improved administration and manage- ment of resources. Shafer has solid experience in managing resources as OKDHS’ former director of Office Sup- port Services Division Ð a position he held since 1992. “Larry Harmon has done an out- Known for his availability and decisiveness, David Shafer picks up the reins as OKDHS’ new chief administrative officer managing the Office of Administration standing job, and I hope I can do the from retiring veteran Larry Harmon. Harmon retired May 1. high-quality job that Larry did,” Shafer said. “It will be a challenge to try to fill years we have produced an extensive ters. One of Director Hendrick’s priori- his shoes. amount of work on; copying records ties in support of OKDHS staff is to “I am excited and looking forward for the Swift Adoption Program; imag- improve the work environment. Hope- to the challenges of the new job. How- ing records for HRMD; implementing fully, if employees have good working ever, I know I am going to have a hard a bar code system for equipment inven- conditions, they will enjoy the hours time letting go of OSSD and will miss tory; implementing mail-security train- they spend at work, which should the direct daily contact I have with ing; making commodity deliveries cus- reflect a higher performance on the OSSD’s staff. I have seven direct tomer-friendly; preparing for im- job.” reports and everyone of them is an out- plementation of Communications Op- Shafer grew up in Alva, Okla., standing and dedicated member of the erations Reporting Enterprise (CORE) where his mother and father, Anna Bell OSSD management team.” and improving safety in the workplace and Carl Shafer, raised him and his He said OSSD is very diversified. and security training, to name a few older brother, Carl. The family owned “We have responsibility for servic- projects. It has really been exciting. and operated Shafer Radio and Televi- es from printing and graphic arts to “We have also done extensive sion. They had the first television in commodities and building construc- remodeling, refurbishing and construc- Alva, and Shafer smiled as he remem- tion,” Shafer said. “In just the last six tion of OKDHS Human Services Cen- CAO continued on page 10

INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 7 OKDHS Honors Military Sacrifices By Kevan Goff-Parker Inside OKDHS Editor Quite often their eyes shone with a mixture of pride and compassion. Pride because of their family’s sacrifice during these challenging times of war in Iraq and Afghanistan; compassion because they were together with others who share their family’s duty to state and country. State employees and their families serving in Iraq or Afghanistan as a result of Title 10 federal orders activating them for U.S. military duty were honored March 19 during OKDHS’ Military Ser- vice Recognition Ceremony at the Kirkpatrick Auditorium in Oklahoma City. Affected employees and their families from OKDHS, the Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety were recognized with a patriotic pin and certificate during the ceremony. MILITARY continued on page 13

8 INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 CAO continued from page 7 bered local residents bringing their lawn chairs to the sidewalk in front of the store to watch “snowy wrestlers” (poor reception) on the black and white TV displayed in their store’s front win- dow during the early 1950s. “I was involved in the family busi- ness at a very early age,” Shafer said. “When I was 12, my job was to help my father at the store testing radio and TV tubes. There were hundreds of types of tubes, and I knew every one of them. “During high school and college, I worked for my father and spent a lot of time on all types of roofs installing TV antennas. The store was our livelihood and I learned the value of work at an early age.” Shafer also developed a knack for performing in speech and drama. He Newly appointed CAO David Shafer with Departmental Services Unit Programs performed in summer stock and musi- Administrator Tommy White at an Office Support Services Division Employee cals. He soon developed an interest in Recognition Committee lunch. politics, social issues and became an hired by OKDHS (then known as the with children, but was sometimes frus- avid reader. He graduated from Alva Department of Public Welfare and later trated by a lack of resources, especially High School in 1957 and then earned a as the Department of Institutions, adoptive, foster and group homes for bachelor’s degree in speech from Social and Rehabilitative Services) to those in OKDHS custody. Northwestern State University (his work at the Helena State School for “Placement was limited and it was grandfather, Anton Shafer, was one of Boys located about 35 miles from Alva. frustrating,” Shafer said. “When I was the school’s founders and a city father “It was a great opportunity to at Helena I used to tell the boys that of Alva). He still speaks fondly of his serve as the institutional program they had two choices, ‘We can help you beloved hometown today. supervisor and deputy superintendent,” learn how to live in the community or “Alva and its small town influence he said. “Two years later at the age of we can help you learn to live in an insti- have really formed my values,” Shafer 29, I was appointed superintendent.” tution.’ ” said. “Growing up there is something More responsibility came when Despite any frustrations, Shafer you never forget.” Shafer was named the first superin- saw himself as a problem-solver. One After earning a master’s degree tendent of L.E. Rader Children’s Diag- of his favorite stories is about a little from Southern Illinois University in nostic and Evaluation Center in Sand boy trying to save a shore filled with 1965, Shafer soon found a job as a cot- Springs in 1972. In mid-1978, he starfish. He said it relates well to his tage counselor for the Iowa State moved to Oklahoma City upon the urg- feelings about public service. School for Boys and worked there from ing of OKDHS Director Lloyd Rader “A young man is walking on a 1965-67. and OKDHS’ Bureau of Children’s beach throwing starfish back into the “Public service has always been Services Supervisor Chase Gordon. He ocean,” Shafer said. “A man comes up important to me and corrections then became supervisor of State Homes to the boy and asks ‘Why are you appealed to my public service side,” and Schools for Children overseeing throwing starfish into the ocean?’ The Shafer said. “I believe that if we are the operation of seven different state young man replies, ‘The sun is up and taking up space on this planet, we schools and institutions. Later, as divi- the tide is going out. should make some contribution to sion coordinator for the American Cor- “ ‘If I don’t throw them in they’ll make life a little better for everyone.” rectional Association accreditation, he die.’ Hearing this, the man commented, Shafer said he was glad to return made sure they were accredited. ‘But, young man, do you not realize to Oklahoma in 1967 when he was Shafer said he enjoyed working CAO continued on page 15 10 INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 Hats Off To OKDHS’ 2004 Quality Award Winners By Kevan Goff-Parker Final TANF High Performance EBT Daycare Implementation Team Inside OKDHS Editor Bonus Data Reporting Team OKDHS Finance Division OKDHS’ annual Quality Awards Family Support Services Division EBT Daycare Technical Team Data Services Division celebration honors team or group OKDHS Finance Division Statewide Child Abuse And Adult projects that use the quality process Faith-Based and Community Abuse Hotline and Area III to achieve measurable results and Initiatives Oklahoma County 55-D Area IV, Pittsburg County and improved service, while Best of the 2004 Honorable Mention Winners Statewide Best recognizes employees who include: Grandfamilies Housing Task Force serve as leaders, mentors and con- Access Oklahoma Immigrant Forum Aging Services Division stant encouragers, and who are Planning Committee Pittsburg County’s respected for their positive character. Family Support Services Division, “Rope For The Kids” OKDHS’ award-winning em- Food Stamp Section Pittsburg County Child Welfare ployees will be recognized during the Adair County Angel Tree Project Area IV, Pittsburg County 2004 OKDHS Quality Awards cere- Area V, Adair County LeFlore County Staff mony and reception from noon to 2 Canadian County Family Drug Advisory Committee p.m. May 5, 2004, at the Langston Court Area V, LeFlore County University Oklahoma City Campus, Area III, Canadian County NORCE Cemetery Beautification located at 4205 N. Lincoln Blvd. County Director Academy VI Committee The nine judges from outside of OKDHS Office of Volunteerism Northern Oklahoma Resource Center of Enid the Agency who reviewed this year’s Office of Field Operations CD Academy Developmental Disabilities Services nominations said they were collec- Division tively the best to date in the nine CQI Contract Performance Survey Team Oklahoma Black Heritage years OKDHS has held the Quality Area I, Kay County Celebration Awards programs. Office for Civil Rights Six teams earned top honors, DDSD HIPAA Code Conversion Project Oklahoma County 55-A CFS Super- receiving 2004 Quality Awards and Developmental Disabilities Services visors Accuracy Improvement Team 17 teams garnered Quality Honorable Division Area III, Oklahoma County 55-A Mentions. A total of 543 employees Data Services Division Oklahoma Marriage Initiative and partners participated on teams Website Project Team and committees to achieve positive Human Services Centers results during calendar year 2003. Data Services Division Public Strategies Congratulations OKDHS! JUMP Technologies Quality Award winners include: Paternity Outreach Team Automation of Pended Items Team Child Support Enforcement Division Child Support Enforcement Division Pontotoc County Children’s Fair University of Oklahoma Center Area IV, Pontotoc County for Public Management Northrop Grumman Mission Systems Rogers County Employee Advisory Committee Certified Public Managers Steering Area V, Rogers County Committee’s Projects and Plans Rogers County OKDHS OKDHS Statewide Certified Public Safety Committee Managers Steering Committee Area V, Rogers County Long Term Care Nursing Staff TANF Work Training Programs Aging Services Division Family Support Services Division Imaging and Storing Child Support State Regents for Higher Education Court Files Oklahoma Department of Career and Office of Administrative Hearings for Technology Education Child Support OKDHS Legal Division INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 11 May 2004 OKDHS News Briefs Calendar Of Events Editor’s Note: Details about these events may DDSD Awards “CASA OKDHS Case- this tremendous accom- be found on the OKDHS InfoNet Calendar of ‘Best of the Best’ worker of the Year plishment.” — KGP Events. Dates are subject to change. Award” — she was nomi- May is National Mental Health Month, National nated by two separate vol- Older Americans Month, National Public Ser- Taking the Oath vices Recognition Week (May 2-8), National unteer advocates (who do Nurses Day (May 6) and National Nurses Week not know each other) for (May 2-8) her work on two different May 3 cases. Executive Team Meeting a.m. When Inside FOD Area Director Meeting p.m. OKDHS caught up with May 3-21 FSSD New Worker Academy Bishop, she was quickly James Nicholson, May 4 director of OKDHS’ writing an acceptance On March 10, four Level I Substance Abuse Training Developmental Disabili- speech for the Oklahoma OKDHS Child Support May 4-7 ties Services Division, CASA Awards presenta- Enforcement attorneys APS New Worker Academy recently presented Christy tion scheduled during the were admitted to appear in May 5 Rochelle (above), a direct evening of April 1. She front of the U.S. Supreme Level I Substance Abuse Training support professional at the said she was surprised to Court during a swearing Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Advisory Committee Southern Oklahoma discover her notification in ceremony at the U.S. letter from CASA only Oklahoma State Council On Aging Resource Center, with a Western District Court- OKDHS 2004 Quality And Employee days before after going “Best of the Best” award. house in Oklahoma City. Recognition Awards Rochelle was one of five through a stacked up mail Pictured taking the oath May 5-7 direct support profession- pile which had accumulat- (L-R) are Sandra Emer- Workforce Oklahoma Partner Conference als from public and pri- ed while she was on a son, Joanne LeBlanc- May 7 vate agencies to receive week’s vacation. Williams and Janice Family Support Services Division the honor during the “I had to run over to Howard-Croft. Also sworn Supervisor Conference “Awards of Excellence in CASA and make sure it in that day was Carolyn May 9 Mother’s Day Direct Support Services” wasn’t an April Fool’s Koger with OKDHS’ joke!” Bishop said. “I’m May 10-14 event held March 29. The Legal Division. — DP APS New Worker Academy very excited by the awards ceremony is spon- May 11-14 sored by DDSD and is honor.” New Featured Web Experienced Supervisor Academy F Oklahoma County held each year at the Gov- Site Named May 11 ernor’s Conference on 55-F County Director Jeri Oklahoma Task Force On Minority Aging This month’s fea- Developmental Disabili- Poplin said she’s extreme- May 13 tured Web site can be ties. — SP ly proud of Bishop. Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities “This is a very big found at www.OKMar- Council May 17-19 CASA Names deal,” Poplin said. “It is riage.org, the flagship site really cool because CASA for the Oklahoma Mar- APS New Worker Academy Bishop ‘Caseworker May 18 workers are volunteers Of The Year’ riage Initiative. OMI’s Safetown who get trained, and the new Web site showcases May 19 courts appoint them as many interactive elements Grandfamilies Housing Task Force special advocates. Two including quizzes, a May 20 different volunteers recog- searchable database-driv- Field Operations Division/County nized her talent and dedi- Administrators’ Association Executive en calendar of events and cation. Board Meeting “The selection com- workshop information. Oklahoma Partnership mittee stated that they To enter your For School Readiness May 25 were very impressed with thoughts about this Fea- tured Web site, go to the Oklahoma Commission For Human the nominations submitted Services Meeting on Ms. Bishop. I feel like OKDHS Infonet site Jacqueline Bishop, a May 26 we’re very fortunate to http://s99web01/okdhs/fee FSSD Field Liaison Meeting Child Welfare Specialist have her on our staff dback.htm, enter your May 27 II, Field Operations, not because of the service that Area V County Director And Field Liaison only was nominated by feedback and click the she provides to children “Submit” button to send Meetings one Oklahoma Court May 31 and families entrusted to your comments.— DD Appointed Special Advo- her. We are very proud of Memorial Day (Offices Closed) cate (CASA) for the 12 INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 Affirmative Action Report Shows Population Congratulations Kevan Goff-Parker percent of the employee population), And Best Wishes Inside OKDHS Editor while 5,517 females (75 percent). Recent statistics from The composition of employees at that To Our Retirees! OKDHS’ Affirmative Action Plan time showed 5,713 white, 925 black, Fiscal Year 2004 provide a good 126 Hispanic, 87 Asian/Pacific March snapshot of OKDHS’ ever-chang- Islander and 479 American Indian/ ing employee population. Here are American Native. Caddo County some interesting statistics of what Sherleen Jackson, Ph.D., direc- Darwin Dale DeVaughan, 25 was printed in the Personnel Trans- tor, Office of Civil Rights, said years action report created by OKDHS’ OKDHS’ employee population com- Office of Civil Rights dated June parably reflects the population of Canadian County 30, 2003. clients the Agency serves. Marcia C. Landes, 23 years At the beginning of July 1, 2002, “This report reflects a very bal- OKDHS employed 7,475 employees, anced employee pool at OKDHS and Grady County while 7,330 employees were is a good snapshot of the people we Cheryl Ann Sharp, 25 years employed on June 30, 2003 Ð a serve,” Jackson said. “As for the large decrease of 145 employees. Of these number of women at OKDHS, many Kay County employees, there were 730 new hires, women tend to be attracted to social Mary Ann Carr, 39 years 698 promotions, 80 demotions and work and dealing with families, chil- 875 separations. dren and senior citizens, but we are Statistics for June 30, 2003, doing more to try to recruit more men Laura Dester Shelter reflect 1,813 males employed (25 into our OKDHS population.” Kenneth Dean Miller, 20 years

continued from page 8 Military Oklahoma 55-A Rosemary V. Abrogar, 9 years Despite temporary technical who are constantly putting their lives problems, Donna Cox provided sev- on the line.” He also praised those Tulsa 72-B eral inspirational songs. The event “who keep the home fires burning” Cherry M. Whipple, 28 years featured such dignitaries as OKDHS and encouraged loved ones to keep Director Howard H. Hendrick, Lt. letters flowing to those serving their Aging Gov. Mary Fallin, Maj. General country. Ophelia Holloway, 25 years Harry M. “Bud” Wyatt III, adjutant “The truth is you are all heroes,” general of Oklahoma, David Shupe, Waite said, “whether you serve in the Aging – Area VI deputy chief of the Oklahoma City frontlines, here in public service or Linda Kathleen Wolfe, 19 Police Department and Col. Gary on your knees (praying) at home.” years Adams, chief of the Oklahoma High- Waite also thanked state way Patrol. employees for their personal and SORC The highlight of the afternoon families’ sacrifices and praised Amer- Duward Howell, 10 years came when keynote speaker Lt. Brian ica’s heroes of freedom, especially K. Waite, command chaplain, 2nd recognizing those who have given the Office Support Services – Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, ultimate sacrifice for their country. Facilities Management N.C., gave an insightful, often OKDHS employees can learn Sherdel Lee, 31 years humorous and compelling speech more about OKDHS’ heroes of free- about his time serving in Iraq. He dom on the OKDHS InfoNet’s Patriot Office Support Services – said he served with “citizen soldiers Board. McAlester Warehouse Bill H. Blagg, 14 years

INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 13 Harmon continued from page 3 ers and new technology of the day (mainframes connected by keyboards and screens known as dumb terminals) made just about every day a new and exciting challenge. It made it a great place to work. I had experiences early on here that would have taken years to have anywhere else.” On Family — Born in Ardmore on May 26, 1940, Harmon quickly became a live-in resident of Okla- homa’s Crippled Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City because of an early childhood illness. “I was one of the fortunate ones to have access to good medical care. Because of that, I have had the opportu- nity to live, grow, have a wonderful family and prosper while living a pro- ductive life. There were many who were not as fortunate.” “I have been blessed to have Helen as my wife and we have four boys who are all fine adults now with their own families. And we are blessed with six lovely grandchildren. The best times in the world now are when we can all be together. It’s absolute chaos, but I love every minute of it.” On Golf — Golf is a family affair for the Harmon family. Larry and Helen play regularly. “When the boys and I get together, golf becomes the place and time where Avid golfers Larry and Helen Harmon are looking forward to spending more time golfing and with family, friends and their church pending Larry Harmon’s retire- we share and talk about the important ment May 1. things in life — children, family, work, world events and how to make a differ- ers were programmed. The media and across the department and the Data ence in tackling the challenges we are computer hardware and software Services staff rose to the occasion. facing in our lives. It’s always a really vendors wanted to have everyone Driving the fairways was easy most good time to be together.” believing that the sky was going to of the time. It was most often the On Challenges and Success — fall at midnight on January 2000. short-putt decisions on Y2K that con- “The greatest professional challenge “Getting an early start in 1996, sumed much of our energies. Fifteen I faced turned out to be one of the we began working on solutions to this million lines of programming code best victories. It was Y2K! What a pending challenge. While there were — that’s what it took to run our sys- nightmare. In computer technology many differences of opinion on the tems at the time. Wow!! 99 is greater than 00 for anyone who tasks in front of us, we really pulled “I remember standing on the knows anything about how comput- together to face these challenges all HARMON continued on page 15

14 INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 Harmon continued from page 14 CAO roof of the Children’s Hospital park- mer DSD administrator and associate continued from page 10 ing garage at midnight with Director director for the administration before Howard H. Hendrick, Jim Nicholson Harmon.) that there are miles and miles of from Developmental Disabilities Ser- Charles Brodt showed me how beach and there are starfish all vices Division and a cast of others. The OKDHS State Office really worked and along every mile? You can’t possibly make a difference!’ garage is located next to DSD head- how to get things done at the associate “At this, the young man quarters in the OU Medical Center director’s level, which at the time was bent down, picked up yet complex. Midnight came and went. The all new to me. another starfish, and threw it lights stayed on, the water kept running Benjamin Demps was the most into the ocean. As it met the and life went on. Boy, were we all well-trained public administrator I’ve water, he said, ‘It made a dif- happy on the roof that night. worked with. He was above and ference for that one.’ ” “We had made the decision early beyond, well-read and really knew how From 1983-85, Shafer on to make all the changes internally things were supposed to fit together. served as administrator for the instead of contracting it out. Vendors Howard H. Hendrick is the best. I Advisory Committee on Rates wanted way too much to do what we stayed here after my original retirement and Standards and acted as were able to do for millions of dollars date of January 2000 to work with him chair of the committee. In less. That was a great victory. and for him. The way he’s using the 1985, he was named special “The best victory and greatest suc- officers to think and act on the critical assistant to OKDHS Director cess during my tenure here has been the issues … well, it’s just amazing watch- Robert Fulton. In 1986, he was development and implementation of the ing him work. He was and is the right appointed to the position of Child Welfare KIDS system. It was one man at the right time for human servic- deputy director of Administra- tion for OKDHS and served in of the largest and most successful infor- es and the way he cares — it’s what’s that capacity (although his title mation systems undertakings in govern- needed at the highest levels of govern- changed several times) until ment. It was huge, I mean HUGE! It ment. Yes, Howard’s a good one … 1992. was the biggest and best-done project, it good heart.” Under OKDHS Director came in on time and on budget and On Retirement — “Everyone is Benjamin Demps Jr., Shafer delivered what we contracted for. KIDS giving me sage advice on what to do was named division administra- became the first certified State Admin- when I retire. For nearly 42 years since tor for Facilities and Central istered Child Welfare Information Sys- I left the University of Missouri in 1962, Services. OKDHS Director tem, known as SACWIS, in the nation. I have worked and worked hard on my George Miller added some KIDS remains a work in progress jobs. My job here has been my life. I services to the division in 1996 because there are always new demands spent time doing things for my job and the name was changed to being asked of the system. Yes! KIDS sometimes when maybe I should have OSSD. Shafer’s title was later was and is a BIG success.” spent more time with family and changed to director of Office On People — Harmon said there friends.” Support Services, and he has has been a number of people he’s Continuing to put his “Best Foot happily served in that capacity learned good lessons from over the Forward,” Harmon said, “Now, I have ever since. years: set my goals on doing three things in “While I am looking for- ward to my new role as CAO, I “Jay Spence, a long-time co-work- retirement. I’m going to spend time will greatly miss working with er and friend, worked with me side by with my family first, friends and do the outstanding staff of OSSD side for the first 25 years and taught me more things with my church. I think it and the variety of activities about commitment, friendship and sup- will be a good investment of my ener- involved with that position,” port. gies and I will have plenty of energy to Shafer said. Lynne Taylor showed me the real do it with. Well, maybe there should be Shafer is married, and he value in learning to continuously pro- four things on my goals list; did I men- and his wife, Karen, have five mote and recognize the employees tion golf?” children and six grandchildren. working for you. (Taylor served as for- — George Earl Johnson Jr.

INSIDE OKDHS — May 2004 15 Inside OKDHS is published for employees and retirees of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services as a joint effort of the Office of Communications, the Publications Section and the Print Shop. Howard H. Hendrick, Director Department of Human Services George Earl Johnson Jr. Director of Communications Alice Carrillo Publications Section and Print Shop Supervisor

Editorial Team: Kevan Goff-Parker, Editor Dustin Pyeatt, Associate Editor Douglas Doe, Associate Editor Stephanie Bond, Publications Editor Carla Garrett, Office Manager Casey Harvey, Asst. Office Manager Tony Hennigh, Graphic Artist Jim Gumm, Photographer

OKDHS S04057 Issued 05/2004 Publication of Inside OKDHS is authorized by the Okla- homa Commission for Human Services in accordance with state and federal regulations and printed by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services at a cost of $3,226.40 for 4,033 copies. Copies have been deposit- ed with the Oklahoma Department of Libraries Publica- tions Clearinghouse. Contents are not copyrighted and may be freely quoted unless otherwise noted.

Oklahoma Department of Human Services P.O. Box 25352 Oklahoma City, OK 73125