MEDIA RELEASE: Ann Felton Gilliland Honored as The Journal Record’s 2026 Most Admired CEO in Nonprofit Category

Local Habitat Chair/CEO Ann Felton Gilliland Honored as The Journal Record’s 2026 Most Admired CEO (Nonprofits) During Monday Awards Ceremony at Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA CITY — Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity Chair/CEO Ann Felton Gilliland was honored Monday night by The Journal Record as its 2026 Most Admired CEO in the Nonprofit category, recognizing more than 36 years of leadership in affordable housing and community impact across central Oklahoma.

Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity Chair/CEO Ann Felton Gilliland celebrates after being recognized Monday, April 27, by The Journal Record as its 2026 Most Admired CEO in the Nonprofit category during an awards ceremony at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City. Above, from left, Kyler Pettus, Mary George, The Journal Record Editor Heather Warlick, Ann Felton Gilliland, Alecia George, Kevin George, Kevyn Colburn, Marty Smith and Hoffie Smith.

The awards program recognizes leaders who demonstrate exceptional leadership, financial stewardship and a commitment to strengthening Oklahoma communities. Held at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City, the ceremony honored Felton Gilliland for decades of service expanding affordable homeownership opportunities and guiding Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity’s growth into one of the state’s leading affordable housing organizations.

Felton Gilliland has led affordable housing efforts in central Oklahoma for more than 36 years, pairing a long-term vision rooted in her Christian faith with steady, disciplined leadership.

Under Felton Gilliland’s leadership, Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity has built more than 1,161 new, energy-efficient and affordable homes and developed four affordable housing communities. The organization also operates two ReStores and has helped more than 800 low-income homeowners through its Critical Home Repair program, providing critical repairs, accessibility improvements and safety modifications.

“This recognition reflects the incredible work of our outstanding team, generous donors and hard-working volunteers,” Felton Gilliland said. “Together, we are building more than homes — we are building stronger communities through safe, stable housing.”

Felton Gilliland’s leadership continues to help transform neighborhoods, strengthen families and create generational opportunities through affordable homeownership.

To learn more about Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build homes, communities and hope, call 405-232-4828, visit www.cohfh.org or text MAKEHOMEHAPPEN to 50155 to support affordable housing in central Oklahoma.