Coffee Announces New Assistant Secretary of the Senate

Senate President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee formally announced his decision today to place Currie Ballard in the position of Assistant Secretary of the Senate.

Ballard is a noted and respected historian and community leader who brings a diverse background in politics and journalism to his new position. Ballard has served on a variety of commissions working on national, historical projects, and most recently served as historian-in-residence at Langston University for 12 years.

Currie Ballard served as a member of the board of commissioners of the Oklahoma Human Rights Commission from 1993 until 1999, and was also a member of the Oklahoma Board of Pardons and Parole from 1999 to 2003.

“We’re proud to have a man of Currie Ballard’s accomplishments to join us in his new role as the new Assistant Secretary of the Senate,” said Coffee. “The expertise and experience that Mr. Ballard brings to this position will benefit the Senate and our state in many ways. I am confident that he will fulfill his duties ably.

“We believe he is the first African-American to serve in Senate staff leadership, and I’m proud to be a part of this historic hire,” he concluded.

The Assistant Secretary of the Senate provides a variety of services during session, which include but are not limited to:
- Coordinating all chamber front desk operations during session;
- Serve as parliamentarian and reading clerk during official Senate session;
- Assist the presiding officer during debate.
- Maintain appropriate procedures during debate;
- Provide information to Senate members and staff concerning legislative procedures.

“Currie Ballard is a very capable and talented individual, and I’m glad to have him on board,” said Paul Ziriax, Secretary of the Senate. “He is a valuable – and historic – new member of the Senate team.”

In the absence of the Secretary of the Senate, while the Senate is in session, the Assistant Secretary performs the duties of the Secretary of the Senate.