Oklahoma’s tourism director announces his retirement after more than a decade of public service

Shelley Zumwalt, executive director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD), announced Thursday that she is retiring after more than a decade of service to the state. Zumwalt, who has held the top position at OTRD since October 2022, is stepping down to pursue opportunities in the private sector. Her last day will be Oct. 11, during which she will assist with the transition to new management.

During her time at OTRD, Zumwalt oversaw a number of achievements, including welcoming more than 18 million visitors to Oklahoma and contributing $11.8 billion to the state’s economy. She led efforts to modernize the agency’s financial, procurement and park reservation systems. Under her leadership, the department received a Heartland Emmy for its “Imagine That” campaign and was nationally recognized for having the top travel guide in the U.S. in 2023. Additionally, Oklahoma today the magazine received the title of Magazine of the Year 2024.

Prior to her position at OTRD, Zumwalt chaired the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) during the pandemic, where she led the effort to distribute over $5 billion in unemployment benefits and organized events to serve thousands of claimants.

Zumwalt’s successor has not yet been announced. To ensure a smooth transition, he will remain in his position until he leaves.

Zumwalt’s retirement announcement can be read below.

In April 2024, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond called on Zuwalt to resign after the audit was disclosed. The audit found that Zumwalt misappropriated funds while working with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission. It was alleged that Zumwalt gave multimillion-dollar state contracts to a software company where her husband is vice president.

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At the same time, Gov. Kevin Stitt withdrew her from consideration for the position of Cabinet Secretary of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage.

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