Deborah Shropshire

Dr. Deborah Shropshire (Deb) is a distinguished pediatrician and public servant renowned for her transformative leadership and commitment to improving child welfare. Throughout her career, she has championed innovative initiatives that have strengthened support for vulnerable children and families.

Deb served at Oklahoma Human Services for 10 years, demonstrating impactful and compassionate leadership in roles such as agency Director. During her tenure, she guided the organization through significant transformations, enhancing communication, customer service, and collaboration. As Director of Child Welfare Services and Deputy Director of Community Partnerships, she championed child advocacy and fostered stronger community networks.

As Medical Director of the Pauline E. Mayer Children's Shelter for 14 years, Deb helped create the Fostering Hope Clinic to provide specialized healthcare for children in foster care. Additionally, over her 21 years as a faculty member and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Deb played an integral role in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals through her expertise and dedication.  Her contributions earned prestigious honors, including the National Ray Helfer Award for Child Abuse Prevention and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Commissioner’s Award.

A firm believer in the Science of HOPE, Deb inspires others with her conviction that the future can be brighter than the present—and that everyone has a role in making that future a reality. Her enduring dedication continues to create meaningful and lasting change in the lives of children and families.