Teachers' Retirement System of Oklahoma

News Release 

CONTACT:  Jacqueline Shannon
                    Communications Director
                    521-4743 (OKC local calling area)
                    877-738-6365 (Toll-free)

 EXECUTIVE SECRETARY TOMMY C. BEAVERS ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

OKLAHOMA CITY (January 23, 2008)—Tommy C. Beavers, Executive Secretary of the Teachers' Retirement System of Oklahoma, will retire Dec. 31, TRS officials announced today.

The Retirement System's Board of Trustees has formed a search committee to seek Beavers' successor.

Beavers has been the Retirement System's Executive Secretary since 1988. He will retire with 47 years of service, including employment with the Oklahoma State Department of Education and military service.

Beavers joined the Teachers' Retirement System staff in 1970. As Assistant Secretary‑Treasurer, he developed the System's data processing section. In 1980, he was promoted to Secretary-Treasurer, assuming responsibility for the System's financial and investment operations. During his tenure, the System's assets have grown from $150 million to more than $9 billion. Membership has increased from 48,000 in 1970 to 145,000 in 2007.

"It's been an honor to work for the members of the Teachers' Retirement System and the state of Oklahoma," Beavers said. "The TRS Board of Trustees and staff have always been highly professional and single-minded in working to improve benefits and service to our membership."

Beavers said he looks forward to spending more time with his wife of 43 years, and hopes to attend every school program and church activity in which their six grandchildren are involved.

"I also hope to play a little golf," he said.