Governor Kevin Stitt today announced three key strategic appointments to strengthen leadership, drive operational excellence, and reinforce governance across his administration as he concludes his final year and a half as Oklahoma’s 28th governor.
“We successfully launched this administration by bringing a fresh set of eyes from Oklahoma’s business community, and we will finish the same way. These three outstanding Oklahomans bring diverse strengths: Dustin’s trusted leadership and negotiation prowess, David’s operational acumen, and Donelle’s strategic vision,” said Gov. Kevin Stitt. “Together, they elevate the capacity of my administration as we push forward on our agenda, and I am confident we can continue to deliver lasting results for the people of Oklahoma.”
Senior Advisor: Dustin Hilliary
Dustin Hilliary, co-owner of Hilliary Communications and a respected figure in Oklahoma’s business and civic landscape, will serve as Senior Advisor to the Governor and chief negotiator with state legislators and elected officials, effective immediately. Hilliary is a third-generation entrepreneur who helped grow his family’s broadband, media, and telecommunications enterprise, bringing critical infrastructure and trusted journalism to rural Oklahoma. In addition, his leadership on public and private sector governing boards underscores his capacity to bridge strategic vision with operational success.
“It is an honor to serve Oklahoma and to work alongside Governor Stitt in his final term to advance policies with the Legislature that put our state on a strong path today and for future generations,” said Dustin Hilliary.
Chief Operating Officer: David Ostrowe
David Ostrowe returns to the Governor’s office as Chief Operating Officer and Secretary, where he will drive cabinet coordination and support agency directors statewide, effective immediately. A results-driven executive and entrepreneur, Ostrowe currently serves as President & CEO of O&M Restaurant Group, where he has led the expansion of established brands and launched new concepts across multiple states.
He previously served as Oklahoma’s first Secretary of Digital Transformation and Administration, overseeing 54 agencies, boards, and commissions. In that role, he modernized operations, streamlined services, and advanced transparency across state government. His record of public service also includes chairing the Oklahoma Lottery, where he doubled state revenue, and ongoing leadership roles with charitable, private, and public boards.
A Navy aviator and Airline Transport Pilot with thousands of flight hours, Ostrowe has also served as an adjunct professor at the University of Oklahoma’s Price College of Business. He earned his BA from Louisiana State University.
“In Governor Stitt’s first administration, we worked with passion to deliver digital transformation and make government more efficient and transparent. I am honored to return as COO to help finish that mission and continue advancing good government for all Oklahomans,” said David Ostrowe.
Secretary of State: Donelle Harder
Donelle Harder will serve as Secretary of State effective Oct. 1. She brings over 15 years of experience in leading large-scale public affairs and policy strategies in both the public and private sectors. She previously served as Senior Advisor and Deputy Secretary of State under Governor Stitt, where she directed multi-agency reforms and developed the Governor’s first legislative agenda.
In the private sector, Harder has advised Fortune 500 companies, statewide elected officials, and institutional investors on growth, governance, and reputation management. After selling her regional PR and marketing firm to Pinkston in 2022, she became a Senior Vice President and one of the firm’s top business development producers. A Baylor University graduate, Harder’s track record of translating vision into execution makes her a trusted leader in navigating complex public dialogue and high-stakes initiatives.
“I’m honored to serve as Secretary of State and support Governor Stitt’s administration again,” said Donelle Harder. “I look forward to sharpening our strategic approach and ensuring this administration remains effective and focused on delivering good government for the people of Oklahoma.”
