Ann Felton Gilliland Will Retire as Habitat CEO
The long-time leader of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity is set to step down from her role.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Awards
Ann Felton Gilliland will retire as the CEO of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity. She has led the organization since 2002, consistently connecting area residents with affordable housing opportunities.
Why it matters
Her departure marks the end of a two-decade tenure that defined the organization's approach to local homeownership. The leadership transition comes as the group reflects on years of progress in the Central Oklahoma housing sector.
Ann Felton Gilliland served as the CEO of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity starting in 2002. Additionally, 405 Magazine named her as the 2026 Humanitarian for her efforts in the community.
The players
Ann Felton Gilliland
She is the outgoing CEO of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity who has dedicated over two decades to local housing initiatives.
Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity
This is a non-profit organization dedicated to building and rehabilitating homes for low-income residents in the region.
405 Magazine
This publication provides lifestyle and community coverage for the Oklahoma City metropolitan area.
The details
Gilliland spent her career focused on expanding access to affordable homes for families throughout Central Oklahoma. Her service was recently recognized by 405 Magazine, which selected her for the 2026 Humanitarian honor.
Timeline
2002: Gilliland began her long-term tenure leading Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity.
2026: Gilliland was formally named the Humanitarian by 405 Magazine.
Culture Shift
The retirement of a long-standing non-profit leader highlights a broader shift in local philanthropy as organizations move beyond legacy leadership models. This transition follows her recognition as the 2026 Humanitarian by 405 Magazine, signaling a change in organizational stewardship.
Residents may see changes in how the organization engages with the public during the transition to new leadership. Those who participate in Habitat programs should monitor official communications for updates regarding project timelines.
The takeaway
Gilliland's two decades of service demonstrate the significant impact a single leader can have on local housing accessibility. Her recognition as a 2026 Humanitarian underscores the importance of continued community-focused philanthropy in Oklahoma City.
Further reading
For more information on local honorees, visit the Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KOCO.
