Friday, July 11, 2014
OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today said she was saddened to hear of the death of Currie Ballard, an expert on black history in Oklahoma and an appointee of hers on a state board.
“Currie Ballard was a renowned and self-taught historian who felt a calling to share his knowledge,” said Fallin. “He was particularly passionate about African-American history and culture, and the many ways they have impacted the state and people of Oklahoma.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Fallin in 2011 appointed Ballard to a four-year term on the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board. He earlier served on the board from 1999 to 2003.
Ballard also earlier served on the Oklahoma Human Rights Commission and previously served as historian-in-residence at Langston University for 12 years. In 2010, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Historian Hall of Fame.
Raised in South Central Los Angeles, Ballard moved to Oklahoma in 1976. In the years that followed, he produced, edited and hosted a black history series, the "Ebony Chronicles," for the Oklahoma Educational Television Authority, which earned him a regional Emmy.