Honoring Julie Bisbee for 14 Years of Leadership

After 14 years of dedicated service, Julie Bisbee is stepping down as executive director of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust, leaving a strong legacy of progress in improving the health of Oklahomans.

Bisbee joined TSET in 2011 as public information officer and was named executive director in 2019. Throughout her tenure, she helped shape TSET’s work to drive meaningful progress in tobacco prevention, cancer research and community health. Under her leadership, TSET increased its grantmaking, maintained low administrative costs and consistently upheld high standards for accountability and integrity.

The impact of this work is clear. Oklahoma’s smoking rate has declined significantly, with youth smoking at historic lows and adult smoking reduced by half. Investments in prevention and cessation — including community programs, statewide media efforts and the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline — have helped thousands of Oklahomans make healthier choices.

“As a leader at this agency for the past 14 years, I’m leaving TSET with a record to be proud of,” Bisbee said. “We have delivered on the mission and kept the promise to use these funds to improve health.”

Bisbee also led TSET through defining moments that affirmed the agency’s long-term stability and independence, while expanding opportunities for partners across the state to drive meaningful, local change.

TSET’s mission remains as important as ever, and the work will continue without interruption. The TSET Board of Directors has appointed Lance Thomas as interim executive director and will conduct a search for a permanent leader. With a strong foundation in place, TSET is well-positioned to continue building a healthier future for Oklahoma.

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Students Lead the Way on Tobacco Prevention

High school students across Oklahoma took the lead this month in the first CounterAct Tobacco Day of Action, hosting events to educate peers about tobacco and nicotine products and the policies that impact youth access.

Through TSET’s Youth Action for Health Leadership (YAHL) program, students organized lunch-table activities and interactive discussions at schools and community sites statewide. Participants used games and peer-to-peer conversations to learn how tobacco retail policies work and why stronger protections are needed to reduce youth access.

The youth-led effort focused on raising awareness and empowering students to speak up for healthier communities. Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, and most adults who smoke begin before age 18, reinforcing the importance of prevention.

By leading these conversations, Oklahoma students are helping build momentum for a healthier, tobacco-free future.

Starting the Conversation About Vaping

Talking with your kids about vaping and smoking isn’t always easy, but Oklahoma parents are showing that it matters.

A recent blog from TSET’s Tobacco Stops With Me campaign shares real stories from two Oklahoma moms who had honest conversations with their children, even when those talks felt imperfect. Their experiences highlight how everyday moments can open the door to meaningful discussions and help kids navigate peer pressure and tough situations.

The takeaway: it doesn’t have to be a perfect conversation to make a lasting impact.

Read what worked, what surprised them and how to start your own conversation:

Perspective: Julie Bisbee in the Journal Record

This month in the Journal Record, Julie Bisbee reflects on progress made and lessons learned after 14 years at TSET. Learn more about the milestones she is most proud of and what is in store for the agency.