Governor Kevin Stitt announced this week that Sterling Zearley will take over as interim executive director for the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD). Current executive director Shelley Zumwalt recently announced her retirement.
“I’m thankful for Sterling’s willingness to step into this role at Tourism as we transition to new leadership. He has a long track record of service to Oklahoma, and I’m grateful for the work he’s done to make our parks a great place to be,” said Stitt.
Zearley is the former executive director of the Oklahoma Public Employees Association and has decades of experience with the Tourism Department is various capacities.
“I look forward to the opportunity to lead Tourism and continue to serve my state in an agency I love. With the upcoming Route 66 Centennial and the opportunity to host Olympic softball and canoeing, all eyes will be on Oklahoma. We are ready for the challenge,” said Zearley.
