Press Release
May 11, 2026
Contact: Jessica Brogdon
Oklahoma Historical Society
Office: 405-967-9487
[email protected]
okhistory.org/board
Karen Keith Named New President of Oklahoma Historical Society Board of Directors
OKLAHOMA CITY — Karen Keith of Tulsa was chosen as the next president of the Oklahoma Historical Society Board of Directors during a meeting on Saturday, May 2, at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. Keith served four terms as Tulsa County Commissioner for District 2 until retiring in January 2025. She spent 21 years as a journalist at KJRH in Tulsa. Keith is a longtime OHS member who joined the OHS board in 2011.
“The Oklahoma Historical Society has served the important role of preserving and interpreting Oklahoma’s history since 1893. I am very proud to be elected president of this august organization. As part of those duties, I look forward to sharing all the wonderful benefits for our members, including access to all our sites and museums across the state, as well as special events,” said Keith. “I am honored and excited to continue working with Executive Director Trait Thompson and our board to bring stories of our state to all of you.”
Weldon Watson of Broken Arrow was elected vice president, and David Sigmon of Bartlesville was chosen as treasurer. All votes were unanimous.
Keith, Randy Buetler of Weatherford, Jack Baker of Oklahoma City, Deena Fisher of Woodward, and Kenny Sivard of Idabel were each sworn in for another three-year term on Saturday, May 2. Kaitlyn Weldon of Jones, who was recently appointed to the board by Governor Kevin Stitt, and Jeffrey Tanenhaus of Tulsa, who replaces Kathy Taylor after her resignation from the board, were also sworn in.
The Oklahoma Historical Society has 25 members on its board. Members of the OHS elect 13, and the governor of Oklahoma appoints 12. OHS membership elects one member from each OHS membership district, and seven members at large. The governor appoints one member from each membership district and appoints six additional members at large.
The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications, the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit okhistory.org.
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