Ward to Retire as Election Board Secretary, Clingman Named as Replacement

After a lengthy career in public service, Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Lance Ward announced today that he is retiring from state government.

Ward, who also serves as Secretary of the State Senate, will retire from both positions on August 1st, 2001. He has served in the dual roles since 1988.

Senate President Pro Tempore Stratton Taylor applauded Ward's service, saying the long-time public servant will be missed.

"Lance is a true professional in every sense of the word. His contributions to state government, especially Oklahoma's electoral process, will never be forgotten," said Senator Taylor.

The Senate leader has named another longtime public servant to replace Ward. Michael Clingman of Edmond will serve as Secretary of the State Senate and State Election Board Secretary.

During a lengthy career in both the public and private sectors, Clingman has served in numerous leadership posts, including commissioner of the Oklahoma State Insurance Fund, administrator of the Oklahoma State Workers Compensation Court and chief executive officer of the Arkansas Workers Compensation Commission.