Ann Felton Gilliland Named 2026 Humanitarian
The longtime leader of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity will retire at the end of the year.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Philanthropy
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405 Magazine has recognized Ann Felton Gilliland as its 2026 Humanitarian for her decades of service in Oklahoma City. She will step down from her role as CEO of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity on December 31, 2026.
Why it matters
The recognition honors her efforts to help local families achieve stability through affordable homeownership. Her work has fundamentally shaped the availability of housing solutions across Central Oklahoma for over three decades.
During Gilliland's 36-year tenure, the organization scaled production from two homes annually to 50 homes per year. The nonprofit remains focused on expanding affordable housing efforts throughout Central Oklahoma.
The players
Ann Felton Gilliland
She is the retiring CEO of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity and the recipient of the 2026 Humanitarian award.
Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity
This nonprofit organization is based in Oklahoma City and focuses on providing affordable homeownership opportunities.
Camal Pennington
He is the incoming CEO who will take over leadership duties at the organization starting in October 2026.
405 Magazine
This is a regional publication that granted the humanitarian recognition to Gilliland.
The details
Gilliland began her journey with the organization as a volunteer board member in 1990 before moving into her leadership role. Camal Pennington is set to succeed her as CEO beginning October 1, 2026.
Timeline
Ann Felton Gilliland joined the Habitat board in 1990.
Camal Pennington begins his term as CEO on October 1, 2026.
Gilliland will officially retire on December 31, 2026.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition follows a pattern set by regional housing nonprofits nationwide as they move toward executive succession. The shift positions the organization to maintain its increased operational capacity under new direction.
The transition in leadership marks a change in management for those seeking housing assistance or volunteer opportunities in Central Oklahoma. Stakeholders and donors can expect continued operations as the nonprofit moves from Gilliland to Pennington.
The takeaway
Effective non-profit leadership often requires both long-term vision and clear succession planning to ensure sustained community impact. Residents and supporters can support these housing goals by engaging directly with the organization's current programs.
What happens next
Camal Pennington will assume the role of CEO at Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity on October 1, 2026, followed by the retirement of Ann Felton Gilliland on December 31, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts by visiting the Philanthropy section.
More information
For more information on the organization and its programs, visit Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Journal Record.
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