Oklahoma Agency Chief to Step Down in August

Executive director of Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust resigning after 7 years with the agency

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:19pm

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A glowing neon outline of a stylized medical symbol, such as a caduceus or a heart, against a dark background, conveying the energy and innovation of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust.The resignation of TSET's executive director marks a pivotal moment for the agency's future direction and independence.Oklahoma City Today

Julie Bisbee, the executive director of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) in Oklahoma, has announced her resignation effective August 24, 2026. Bisbee has served in the role since 2019 and has been with the agency since 2011. She stated that she is leaving voluntarily and is not being forced out or pressured to depart.

Why it matters

TSET was created by Oklahoma voters in 2000 to invest funds from a lawsuit against tobacco companies and use the earnings for health-related projects across the state. The agency oversees around $2 billion in public funds, and its leadership and spending have been the subject of political battles over the years as lawmakers have tried unsuccessfully to gain more control.

The details

Bisbee, whose salary is $167,490, said she had accomplished her goals at the agency and is 'open to opportunities' after her resignation. The TSET Board has appointed Lance Thomas, the agency's chief of staff, as interim director while they search for a permanent replacement. In January 2026, the Oklahoma Supreme Court nullified a law that could have injected more politics into TSET's spending decisions.

  • Bisbee announced her resignation on April 3, 2026.
  • Bisbee's last day as TSET executive director will be August 24, 2026.

The players

Julie Bisbee

The executive director of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) in Oklahoma since 2019, who has announced her resignation effective August 24, 2026.

Lance Thomas

The chief of staff at TSET, who has been appointed as the interim director while the agency searches for a permanent replacement for Bisbee.

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What they’re saying

“'What this agency has built over 25 years is something Oklahoma should genuinely be proud of. Innovation, transparency, and accountability have defined this work. The board has set a bold direction for what comes next. I'm leaving knowing this organization is better positioned than it ever has been.'”

— Julie Bisbee, Outgoing Executive Director, Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust

What’s next

The TSET Board will conduct a search for a permanent executive director to replace Julie Bisbee, who is stepping down on August 24, 2026.

The takeaway

Bisbee's departure comes at a critical time for TSET, as the agency has faced political battles over its funding and spending decisions. Her resignation highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining the independence and integrity of public health agencies, even those created directly by voter initiatives.