Janet Holman Gillin has spent more than 30 years helping others find stability, independence, and purpose. Her career has spanned child welfare, developmental disabilities services, job coaching, and workforce development. Through every role, she has worked to make life better for individuals and families across multiple states.
Born and raised in Okay, Oklahoma, Janet knew early on she wanted to help others. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Wichita State University. Although education remained important to her, Janet was drawn to advocacy and support services where she could make a direct impact.
She began her career in Kansas, working in child welfare. As a Child Welfare Specialist, she helped families reunify after difficult circumstances. She worked closely with legal teams, state agencies, and social workers to create safe, supportive homes for children.
In 1991, she joined the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) in the Developmental Disabilities Division. Janet played a vital role in closing the Hissom Memorial Center, helping individuals with disabilities transition into community-based living. She worked alongside federal courts, state officials, and advocacy groups to ensure each person received personalized housing and services.
Her expertise in case management, compliance, and program development earned her recognition across the field. Janet continued to advocate for people with disabilities, helping improve service options, expand housing opportunities, and build job programs.
Janet’s work later expanded into workforce development. In the 1990s, she served as a Job Coach and Employment Trainer, helping adults with disabilities find meaningful employment. She understood that true independence comes from having both support and purpose.
She later joined the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities as a Training Specialist. There, she helped modernize employee training programs. She developed one of the first online training platforms for Developmental Disabilities Services, helping improve service quality across the state.
Throughout her career, Janet has connected policy, advocacy, and direct support. She has worked with local providers, state agencies, and federal courts to build better human services systems.
Beyond her professional life, Janet has been active in her community. She volunteered at a women’s shelter in Arkansas, helping survivors of abuse find resources and support.
Janet’s proudest accomplishment is her family. She is the mother of five children and one stepchild. Her children have built successful careers in fields like higher education, medicine, the military, and manufacturing. Janet’s values of hard work, service, and compassion live on through them.
Today, we honor Janet Holman Gillin for a career defined by dedication, leadership, and lasting impact.
About Janet Holman Gillin
Janet Holman Gillin is a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities, children in need, and underserved communities. Over a 30-year career, she has worked in child welfare, developmental disabilities services, workforce development, and training. A native of Okay, Oklahoma, Janet earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Wichita State University. She has made significant contributions in Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Tennessee, always focused on helping individuals build better, more independent lives. Janet remains committed to service, both professionally and personally. Connect with her on LinkedIn.
