Best Wishes for a Bright Future

This is my last blog post as Vice President of the Institute for Public Service. I have enjoyed 31 wonderful years at UT, most of them at IPS. The results of the work of this place touches every Tennessean; they just don't know it. You help keep their taxes low, their government more efficient, their businesses healthy and their law enforcement well trained. You help create leaders for today and tomorrow, and champion great causes in many areas including economic development. I could not be more proud to have served a career helping to guide this place.

I've said many times, I understand that it is the staff who make things happen and do the good work. I held the fortunate position of being able to brag about it to others.

• The President and his senior staff are much more aware of the work of IPS than they were a decade ago and we have on-going partnerships with every campus and institute.
• The Board of Trustees understands the importance of what we do and they support our mission.
• Even though we've seen tough economic times during the last decade or so, MTAS received a $550K increase in state appropriation, LEIC received a $500K increase in state appropriation and the Naifeh Center received a $75K increase in state appropriation, in addition to the other increases that the state funded for salary increases, benefits and operating.

That's not a bad track record, and I didn't make it happen. The staff and their excellent work speaks for itself.

Also during this time we have:

• increased staff salaries by an average of 40 percent while the cost of living during the same period increased 32 percent.
• We've made it a priority and provided funding for a minimum of 32 hours of professional development every year to keep skills and knowledge current.
• We improved our performance measures and therefore our accountability to the tax payers who provide our funding whether it be through federal tax dollars, state tax dollars or local tax dollars.
• The Balanced Scorecard demonstrates our progress and I believe the Baldrige criteria will move our organization toward greatness.

I am not a perfect leader, but I have led with dedication and conviction to do the right thing, to treat everyone fairly, and to create opportunities for all. I have been an advocate for IPS and, at times, I've been a pain in the side for some. I accepted my role, and I have just a few "do-overs" I wish I could get to.

This is a GREAT place. It accomplishes amazing work. And, this is not a job, it is a calling. To serve the public is not for the faint of heart. I appreciate all the opportunities that have been provided to me by many mentors along the way. Gary Baskette hired me into IPS. Tom Ballard mentored me into a leadership role. Hank Dye could not have been a stronger advocate, and there are many more to whom I am eternally grateful. Joe DiPietro is a great president and he is moving the university toward excellence. I appreciate  all the friends and colleagues that I have made along the way. And, I most appreciate the support I've been provided by those who also believe in our mission.

Special thanks to the Central Office staff who have made coming to work a joy every day. We laugh together. We play together. And, sometimes we cry together. I love them all!

I look forward to hearing great things in the future. There is much work left to be done. God speed to all of you.

Sincerely,
Mary

What a wonderful staff

Well, I keep getting really nice notes and I can't possibly post them all, but I have a few more I'd like to share.

I got back from the APWA Conference in Toronto this past Friday evening. Saturday I got up and moved my oldest son (a Jinks  Scholarship Recipient) to Mississippi to start a new job as a Quality Control Chemist for Drexel Chemical Company. Sunday (starting Saturday night) we were in Sharon, TN, for the baptism of my two grandnephews. So, when I finally got to catch up on my mail Monday, I found a very nice note from you. I want to thank you so much for the personal note. The issue about donating employee sick leave that I brought up in that IPS ERC meeting meant something to me, as the Jackson Office had wanted to do just that, and the rules wouldn’t let us do what we wanted to do. You pointed out to me that I should always remember from the fact that those rules are now being changed that one person can make a difference. Well, this one person could not have made a difference if you had not chosen to champion the issue. When it was discussed that the UT rules were the way they were, and that they were not in alignment with the state, you were the one who said that it wouldn’t hurt to ask if they could be changed. So, thank you for that. I will remember that one person can make a difference. Also, thank you for endowing the Jinks Scholarship. Both of my sons have been recipients and our whole family appreciates what you did. 

Thank you for the time that you and Jack took to talk to my son, David, at this year’s annual conference. With David being interested in a law enforcement career, he appreciated Jack sharing his experience and advice. Speaking of making a difference, and of championing, thank you for championing IPS and MTAS.  Good and bad, it is the best job I have ever had. I feel like we make a difference to Tennessee, and I am proud to tell people that I work here. Best Wishes, John (Chlarson, MTAS)

Thank you for sending the kind note and also for the opportunity to work here with the Institute for Public Service. As a first generation college grad, the University of Tennessee means a lot to me too. I hope your next endeavors are rewarding and meaningful and continue to impact our state and our communities. Kim (Raia, CTAS)

 

Thank you so much for forwarding the copy of Exchange which announced the OTI Ed Center rollout. Also, thank you for your kind remarks in the enclosed card. I have often said that coming to IPS/CIS was one of the best career decisions I ever made. The overall success of this organization has happened in no small measure due to your dedication and leadership. I thank you for your service to my University and my state. I hope that once you can navigate past some of the short term challenges, that you and Jack can enjoy a happy joyful retirement. If you guys ever find yourselves in the Dandridge area, Patty and I would love to have you drop by for a visit…we have plenty of porches for sitting (and sippin…) Kind Regards, Walter (Idol, CIS)

 

Hello, Mary. I recently became aware of your announcing your imminent departure from IPS and just wanted to send you a note. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to continue my work in public service through several years of employment at UT, and thank you also for the opportunity to participate in the IPS Leadership Academy. I always found encouragement in your confidence and support through some very difficult times at MTAS. I wish you and your family the very best in days ahead. Sincerely, Gary (Petree, former MTAS)
 

As you move into the next amazing chapter of your life, know that our very best wishes and thoughts go with you. Thank you for your dedication and hard work. Tammy (Gage, CIS)

I just wanted to send you best wishes on your up-coming retirement.  I hope you get to do all the things you’ve wanted to do and spend lots of time spoiling the grand kids!!  J Best wishes, Sherri (Cooper-Duru, CIS)

 

I wish you well in your retirement endeavors.  Thank you for the opportunity that you gave me to come back to UT and serve the university and its interests. Regards, Keith (Ridley , CIS)

 

VP Messages to/from Staff

It is difficult in a leadership position with 150 employees to get to know each and every person in a personal way. But, when you've been with an organization as long as I have, I come to learn a lot about staff. Kay Stegall's family loves horses. Emily Miller has sweet two-year old twins. Brad Harris loves to garden. Pat Hardy has a heart larger than life. Andre Temple has had his picture taken with more people than Elvis. Terri Kinloch has lots of funny jokes (don't get her started). We have a slew of Veterans working in IPS and I appreciate their service to our country. Wendy Eddy is a competitive dancer, and I still have the Christmas present Brian Spears gave me in 1992 - a basket of potpourri. Chuck Shoopman and his dog Winston take morning walks. I could go and on, but I won't. Suffice it to say I have enjoyed getting to know each person who has passed my way.

The day after I announced my retirement, I started writing notes to every staff member. The purpose was not to receive praise in return, but to express my sincere appreciation for what each and every one of you do for your agency, IPS, UT and the citizens of Tennessee. You make a difference and I have tried to use every venue possible to tell your story.

So, it was with much joy and a little sadness that I began receiving notes in return. Thank you for your kindness.

I’ve received the nice card you recently mailed to me and was truly touched by your sentiment and thoughts.  It reminded me that after every hospital stay I’ve had over the past 13 years, there was always a get-well card from you waiting in my mailbox when I got home....   I hope that you will enjoy this new phase of your life to the fullest.  And that you will keep in touch with all of us. Thanks for all you did for UT, IPS and MTAS.  And for your friendship, tolerance and encouragement. David (Angerer, MTAS)
 

I was deeply touched by your kind note. You did a great job leading IPS to another level. I am grateful for your support of TREEDC and please stay in touch- hopefully, our paths will cross soon. Thank you for everything. You are a class act! Regards, Warren (Nevad MTAS)

I want to thank you for the personal note you sent … very classy and much appreciated. I’m sure I only know a tiny fraction of what you have done to make IPS a better place for all of us to work.  Having worked for many different organizations, I appreciate what you have done to make our salaries competitive.  That takes a long, persistent effort in higher education.  I hope you enjoy some well-deserved time off until you take on your next project, whatever that may be. I also hope our paths cross again. All the best, Martha (Kelly CIS)

I got your note in the mail on yesterday and wanted to Thank You.   I would think that you would have a millions things to do before next week so thanks for thinking of me.  I wish you well in your retirement and hope to see you around.  Thanks again for all of your support over the years!!!! Jon (Walden CTAS)

Thank you for the kind letter and the Exchange newsletter.  That was an interesting project for Don and me.  I wish it had been more successful.  We have been through a lot in my 18 years at IPS and the University. Please enjoy your retirement and being a grandma.  I have four grandchildren and it is always a pleasure to see them and then give them back to mom and dad. Best wishes. John (Erdmann, CIS)

Thank you Mary for all your hard work at IPS in making it the best that it could be. Thanks also for your kindness to me through our years of working together. Armintha (Loveday, MTAS)

I just wanted  to say you will be missed. I appreciate all you've done for me. Thanks for your words of encouragement along the way.... Vicki (South, MTAS)

Thank you for your very nice note.  I have enjoyed working with you and wish you the very best.  Enjoy your retirement and spoil that grandbaby! Wendy (Eddy, CIS)

 

I received you card in the mail yesterday and wanted to thank you for the kind words that you said. Since I’m out in the field in Middle Tennessee a lot with my job, you and I never got to see much of each other, however, the time that I did get to spend with you I enjoyed. I hope that you enjoy retirement ..... Tell Jack that I said hello and I think of him anytime a county starts talking about enhancing ambulance billing. I’m only 40 but I’ve noticed that life seems to be a circle and I keep running into folks that I haven’t seen in a while, so hopefully we will see each other again on this “something new every day”journey through life. Until then, Doug (Bodary CTAS)

 

 

 

You can be Vice President

I've never shared my "story" very broadly, but as I reflect on my life and career, I thought it might inspire you to believe you can be a university vice president some day, or something even greater.

I was birthed at Jackson Madison County General Hospital by Dr. Thomas Ballard; how ironic that another Tom Ballard would eventually have such an influence on my life.

My father was a Captain with the Jackson Fire Department and my mother was a stay-at-home Mom of three. I am the middle child and only girl. My father died at the scene of a fire when I was six years old. My mother had few coping skills and to say my childhood was a little unusual would be an understatement. I was fortunate to have a great-grandmother and an aunt and uncle who provided stability in my life.

At the age of 14 I was removed from my home, sent to Nashville, and placed in a state-run residential facility for "dependent and neglected" children. Some may think, how sad. For me, it was the best possible scenario. Upon graduation I received a full scholarship to any four year public school in the state. I chose UTK because I had read it was a good school and it was far away from "home."

I started UTK during the summer quarter (yes we were on the quarter system, not the semester system in the "old" days.) My high school guidance counselor had me convinced that I was not smart enough nor did I have the coping skills to succeed in such a large school. He underestimated my determination and will to be successful. I went on to graduate in four years with a bachelor's in business administration and a concentration in public administration, while enduring the painful murder of my older brother by a drug addict looking for money while robbing a convenience store. Meanwhile my younger brother took a different path and has spent a good part of his life in the justice system.

I had several major influences during my college experience; among them Dr. Bob Cunningham. He and Dr. Otis Stevens asked me about attending graduate school. No one in my family had ever graduated from college, so I had certainly never considered graduate school as an option. But, I was admitted on provisional status to prove that I could do the work. I did indeed succeed and graduated with a master's in public administration with a concentration in public finance in two year.

During undergraduate and graduate school I worked at UTK in various student positions and eventually a graduate assistant position. When I graduated with my master's I was fortunate to obtain a full-time position in what was then known as "residence halls" as their business manager. Every day I walked pass signs that said "Institute for Public Service." I didn't know what they did, but I thought it sure sounded like something that I would enjoy.

In the meantime I had married and had one child, my wonderful daughter Amanda. I saw a job opening for a business assistant in IPS, interviewed and was eventually hired by Gary Baskette. Thus began my long career in IPS. I worked for Gary and then Tom Ballard and Sammie Lynn Puett. I moved to Nashville and served as training consultant for cities and counties while also serving as assistant director of the Center for Government Training. Tom eventually asked me to come back to Knoxville where I served in a variety of roles including IT, HR, publications, etc.  Truly I know IPS inside and out better than any other human on earth. That's why I love it so.

Tom eventually retired. Hank Dye became my new mentor. He also loved the mission of IPS and eventually convinced the president that he had too many responsibilities and that IPS should have its own VP. So, in 2008 I was promoted to VP. What a great place UT is to work. What great opportunities are available to us to learn and grown. What a career!  I wouldn't take any of it back.

So, the moral of the story is, no matter where you start in life, you can be a vice president or whatever you want to be, if you are willing to work hard enough, take risks, lean on your mentors, and learn every step of the way. Are these United States not truly the land of opportunity?

A Call to Serve

A few years ago at an ASPA conference I picked up a little book called "A Call to Serve: Quotes on Public Service" compiled by Marc Holzer, Mahako Etta, and Yetunde A. Odugbesan. A few of the quotes include:

On a call to serve: "And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy

On compassion: "How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong."  George Washington Carver

On quality of life: "The care of human life and happiness is the first and only legitimate objective of good government." Thomas Jefferson

On purpose: "When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die." Eleanor Roosevelt

On ethics: "My creed is that public service must be more than doing a job efficiently and honestly. It must be a complete dedication to the people and to the nation with dull recognition that every human being is entitled to courtesy and consideration, that constructive criticism is not only to be expected but sought, that smears are not only to be expected but fought, that honor is to be earned, not bought. Margaret Chase Smith, Senator from Maine

On citizenship: "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." Mahatma Gandhi

On volunteerism: "A volunteer is a person who can see what others cannot see; who can feel what most do not feel. Often, such gifted persons do not think of themselves as volunteers, but as citizens - citizens in the fullest sense; partners in civilization. George H.W. Bush

Guest blog from Beth Phillips

Beth is a leadership academy participant and program manager at CIS.

A Cluster Approach at CIS

                Industry clusters have been around for a long time, but the focus on clusters in economic development is getting a lot of attention recently.  We are all aware of the automotive cluster that grew around Detroit, the technology cluster that developed in the Silicon Valley, and the music industry that has grown in Nashville.  In short, clusters are groups of inter-related industries that drive wealth creation in a region.  But, clusters are more than a collection of companies in a particular region that share similar business interests.  An entire value chain exists within a cluster, where suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, academic institutions, researchers, and workforce training providers, as well as those who provide relevant support services draw a competitive advantage from each other.

                The cluster approach to economic development has been around for a while (the concept was popularized by Michael Porter in 1990 as an approach to help regions achieve a competitive advantage), and the economic development community is watching its effectiveness as an economic development strategy.  There is agreement, however, that a targeted, partnership approach that focuses resources across all elements of the economic ecosystem is needed.  In today’s global economy, companies, both large and small, recognize the value of doing business in regions that allow them to make strategic connections with each other and with resources that can enhance their growth and development.  And, states and regions are increasingly building economic development strategies and investments around nurturing key drivers of their economies.  The cluster development approach also extends to the federal level, where significant investments are being made in developing the partnerships, programs, and infrastructure needed to grow regional clusters.

                The Center for Industrial Services is actively engaged in three federally funded initiatives aimed at growing key clusters in Tennessee by extending growth and innovation resources to companies.  Two federal Jobs and Innovation Accelerator initiatives are accelerating the growth of clusters in East Tennessee: the ACE Accelerator project, which is focused on growing the advanced composites/carbon fiber cluster; and the Advanced Manufacturing Prototyping project, which is focused on growing the advanced manufacturing cluster in the region.  And, CIS is a key partner in the recently awarded Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership DRIVE initiative led by IPS, which will focus efforts of 14 state and regional partners in growing the dynamic automotive supply chain that exists within a 69-county, 4-state core region of the Tennessee Valley.  These three initiatives are part of a framework at CIS and IPS that leverages the key innovation assets of our state, including the University of Tennessee, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Board of Regents Institutions, the State of Tennessee, and regional economic development organizations to improve regional economic competitiveness and strengthen economic vitality.

                While CIS has long focused its services to specific sectors through programs such as the Manufacturing Extension Partnership, the Procurement Technical Assistance Center, and the SBIR Assistance Center, these new initiatives provide an opportunity to join other key stakeholders in taking an in-depth look at what is needed to capitalize on opportunities for job and cluster growth and develop and deliver specialized services to its customers.

Guest Blog from Misty DePriest

Misty is a Solutions Consultant in CIS and a soon to be Leadership Academy Graduate.

 

As part of my Leadership Academy experience, I recently had the opportunity to attend the 2014 Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police Conference in Chattanooga. While at the conference, I not only had the opportunity to witness upcoming innovations in police technology and put my hands on the latest and greatest law enforcement weaponry, I had the extreme pleasure of hearing Dr. Dale Henry speak about leadership and change.

Dr. Henry is a University of Tennessee graduate and grew up in Harriman. He started his career as an educator and, throughout the years, transitioned to the field of consulting and public speaking. Dr. Henry has spoken at both company engagements (Wal-Mart, AT&T) and educational engagements (Harvard Business School/Clemson University). He has the unique style and ability to weave his personal day-to-day experiences and stories from growing up on a farm into public discussions on topics like leadership, culture change, public service, and communication. Dr. Henry is less a presenter (he uses no presentation aides) and more a story teller.

The main topic of Dr. Henry’s discussion at the conference was Change Requires a Leader. During the “presentation”, he shared an intriguing analogy about leadership. Dr. Henry suggests that all employees are leaders regardless of job title. He likens leadership to the duct work that brings heat and air through a building. If you trace the term duct back to its Latin origin ductus, one definition is channeling or leading. Dr. Henry’s interpretation of that meaning is that a duct “brings the best of what is available to where it is needed most”.  In reflecting on my position at UT CIS, this analogy is very indicative of my “bringing the best manufacturing solutions we have available to the companies that most need them” – I am a leader.

Dr. Henry also suggests that, while we are all “ducts” (leaders) in serving our customers, we tend to be “vents” in our internal day-to-day business interactions. As vents, we direct or manage “stuff” – moving it from one point to another – or even stopping its progress if we see fit. Applying this to my own position, I think of the policies and procedures we follow internally to accomplish tasks – travel, contracts, information requests from managers/co-workers, etc. – I am also a vent.

As Dr. Henry indicated to the Chiefs of Police audience, we are operating in a system that was started years ago. In order to move to the next level, we need a new philosophy. We need more “ducts” and fewer “vents”. The ductus is interested in how to help “the other person or the team” win – not in how “I can win”. Throughout my Leadership Academy engagement, I have read several leadership books, heard numerous speakers with different backgrounds, and been exposed to various “themes” on how to be a leader.  However, for me, I think the notion of do I want to be a “ductus” or a “vent” is perhaps the simplest explanation of how to be a good leader – regardless of job position or title. Everyone can be a leader just by making sure we “bring the best of what is available to where it is needed most” – or, to quote the United States Marine Corps Officer Candidates School motto – Ductus Exemplo.