Sharing another Blog post

Mike Smith is a friend and colleague from UNC Chapel Hill's School of Government. His recent blog post is worth sharing.

Mike Smith's Blog

What do you think? We have this book in our Leadership Library. If you are interested in reading it, contact Macel Ely or Tom Kohntopp for a loan.

Personal Privilege - The Circle of Life

Although my posts are generally directed toward the activities of the institute, a particularly challenging January begs a personal response.

At the passing of my dear, sweet mother-in-law, I received an outpouring of encouragement and support from across the institute. Although I have only been a part of her family for a few years, she made me feel welcome. She suffered a great deal during her last six months and I am grateful that she no long suffers. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers.

Just as my mother-in-law was in her final days, the great news came that my only child is expecting! Due in August, we are thrilled to share the good news. I have three step-grandchildren who I enjoy immensely. I look forward to the years ahead as "Gigi". Again, thanks for your words of congratulations and encouragement.

One of the reasons IPS is such a great place to work is because we don't just work together, but we care about each other. We share in pain and in celebration. For that, I am eternally grateful.

Good Budget News - At Last

When the Governor released his budget proposal this week, it was good news for IPS!

Although we received a very small cut in our state appropriation, it was offset by a 2.65% operating increase, funding for a 2.5% salary pool, and funding for expected benefit increases. In total, the three IPS line items received just over $475,000 in new funding!

President Joe DiPietro, CFO Butch Peccolo and VP Hank Dye were great advocates on behalf of all the "non-formula funded" units. I appreciate their efforts.

And, they are willing to advocate on our behalf because of the outstanding results of the work our staff accomplishes all across the state. Thanks for all you do!

IPS Leadership Academy - Memphis

The IPS Leadership Academy spent three days in Memphis in December. What a wonderful experience. In addition to great classroom time, we had a tour of the new pharmacy building and the dental lab. Josh Jones and Susan Robertson both took a turn at drilling on a tooth! We also had good food at the Rendevous and a few hours on Beale Street. The week included crazy weather with rain and snow. All in all, it was a good experience and I look forward to the upcoming session in March.

UT System Strategic Planning

As we begin the new year, a number of staff from across IPS are participating in task forces that have been formed to begin shaping the goals of the system strategic plan.

Chuck Shoopman is chairing the Outcomes and Measurement Task Force and I'm serving as the planning committee liaison to this task force

Beth Phillips - research task force
Bonnie Jones - Employer of Choice task force
Susan Robertson - external affairs task force
Andre Temple - staff affairs task force
Paul Jennings - driving investments and new revenue task force
Gail White - system-wide support systems


The work of all the task forces is to be complete by January 27, so this will be a busy month for these individuals. Thanks to them for their service.

Welcome Rhonda Campbell

Rhonda is the new IPS Development Director. She has been living in Knoxville for one year after many years in Chicago. She has great development experience including a number of years with United Way.

Paul Jennings chaired the search committee that brings Rhonda to IPS. We are excited for Rhonda to join our staff. Please welcome her when you get a chance.

Another Year Begins

Happy New Year to All!

As we begin 2012, there are many opportunities ahead of us. The general assembly convenes next week and the governor presents his new budget at the end of the month. I'm sure these activities will require some of our attention.

Our local government customers are wrapping up redistricting and turning their attention to debt management, financial management, personnel management, and all the other issues that consume their attention.

Our manufacturing customers, at least some of them, are seeing increases in business and there are some positive signs in the economy.

I'm looking forward to an exciting year and I hope you are as well.