Community advocate Hillary Burkholder has been named as the new CEO at Palomar, Board Chairman Tricia Everest has announced.

Burkholder joins Palomar from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services where she served as deputy chief of strategic engagement and director of community partnerships. She brings extensive experience to her new role including stints as director of community engagement for ReMerge, as well as work with the Oklahoma Health Care Authority and the OU Center for Public Management. 

Burkholder earned her masters of public administration with a concentration in nonprofit management from the University of Oklahoma. 

“Hillary is a dynamic and compassionate leader who will be a terrific champion for the mission of Palomar,” said Justin Brown, Oklahoma secretary of human services. “Her ability to build meaningful relationships in joint service to the community aligns perfectly with Palomar’s mission to remove barriers for victims of domestic violence. 

“I am excited for the next stage of the organization with Hillary’s experience and commitment rallying a team of dedicated servants into the future.”

Kim Garrett, visionary and founder, was elevated to the role of chief visionary officer and will serve on the board of directors. With 20 years of nationally-recognized experience, Garrett is set to drive Palomar’s innovation and social enterprises. 

Garrett will also oversee the trauma-informed design and construction of the Family Justice Center, which was approved by voters as part of Oklahoma City’s MAPS4 proposal. When complete, the $42 million project is to be operated by Palomar, with design expected to begin next month. 

“Chief visionary officer is an apt title for Kim Garrett, because it was truly her vision that fueled the development of Palomar,” said David Holt, mayor of Oklahoma City. “After just five years, Palomar is an established lifeline in our community, saving lives and changing lives. That work will continue as Kim moves into this new role.”  

Since its opening in 2017, Palomar has served more than 17,000 individuals through wrap around services for domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, child abuse and elder abuse. Palomar’s work is made possible through more than three dozen community partnerships providing everything from mental health and medical services to housing.

“Palomar is an ideal example of collective impact: identifying a need and coming together to provide tangible solutions,” Everest said. “The solid foundation Kim captained has made even bigger dreams possible, and Hillary is the right person to steward those dreams. 

“Both of these women share a heart for service and the tenacity to break down barriers in support of victims in our community. I can’t wait to see what they do next.”