Stitt names interim Oklahoma mental health commissioner

OKLAHOMA CITY — Gov. Kevin Stitt named an interim commissioner of the Oklahoma mental health department Tuesday, following the Legislature’s vote to fire the previous agency head last week. 

Retired Rear Admiral Gregory Slavonic was appointed by Stitt. He previously led the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, which had been “plagued” by financial mismanagement, according to a news release. 

Former Commissioner Allie Friesen had served in the role since her January 2024 appointment, but her time as the agency’s leader was marred by financial disarray, investigations and audits. Friesen blamed prior administrations for the financial situation that required a cash infusion from lawmakers.

Stitt names interim Oklahoma mental health commissioner • Oklahoma Voice