Sue Ann Arnall

Class of
2022
Sue Ann Arnall

Sue Ann Arnall

"Some days the work is harder than others, but each day we are granted a new opportunity to change the course for the future."
Sue Ann Arnall, 2022

Biography

Sue Ann Arnall grew up in Poteau during the cultural revolution of the 60’s and 70’s. In her hometown she had the formative experience of witnessing her best friend’s parents, Dr. and Mrs. John Montgomery, establish the LeFlore County NAACP.

After graduating from The University of Tulsa College of Law, she was recruited by the predecessor to Continental Resources to establish and manage the oil and gas marketing departments. There she enjoyed a successful career while raising her two beloved daughters, Jane and Hilary.

Following her departure from the oil and gas industry, Arnall set her focus on a new aim—to level the playing field for marginalized individuals by lowering barriers to social and economic mobility. Informed by her early experiences and with the recognition that not all Oklahomans enjoy the same opportunities, she created the Arnall Family Foundation in 2015.  

Since its founding, Arnall has invested more than $200 million primarily to improve Oklahoma’s foster care system and reduce its unprecedented incarceration rate. To meet the gaps and needs in the current system, she guided the Foundation to create the Diversion Hub, which has assisted thousands in permanently escaping the criminal legal system to lead productive lives.

Arnall also serves on the Oklahoma County Jail Trust, leading efforts for a new state-of-the-art facility that meets the government’s responsibility for public safety while also providing necessary diversion and rehabilitation services. Ancillary to her work, she strives to educate the public on policies that contribute unjust treatment and trap disenfranchised individuals in a cycle of incarceration.

Fun fact

Arnall grew up with and remains close friends with Mildred Randolph, daughter of Civil Rights pioneer, veterinarian, and fellow Oklahoma Hall of Fame honoree Dr. John Montgomery.

Oklahoma connections

Born in Poteau, Sue Ann Arnall has devoted her life to the betterment of all Oklahomans through her work with the Arnall Family Foundation.

Hometown

Poteau

Profession

Attorney

Presenter

Mildred Randolph

Born

1956

Died

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