Institute News

During a recent meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, someone commented on the cold weather and the need for a warmer coat. A colleague from Vermont replied that they had a saying, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!”

Over the years, I’ve been in numerous weather situations where someone in the group was unprepared for unexpected inclement weather. When this happens, sometimes the result is temporary discomfort. Sometimes, though, being unprepared can be life-threatening.

The University of Tennessee Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS), an agency of the Institute for Public Service (IPS), has announced the selection of the inaugural cohort for PULSE TN: Strengths-Based Leadership Intensive, a new statewide leadership program with a simple mission to amplify the beat of local leadership for a stronger Tennessee.

Knowing what’s right doesn’t mean much unless you do what’s right. ~ President Theodore Roosevelt

In today’s climate, public service can feel increasingly complicated. The work itself has not become less important, but the atmosphere around it has become more strained. Disagreement feels sharper. Assumptions come faster. And too often, people working to support stronger communities are viewed not as partners in progress, but as something to be questioned, resisted or dismissed.

New guidance is available for Tennessee local governments, courtesy of the UT Center for Local Planning. Planning commission, board of zoning appeals and other public meeting agendas must be published online at least 48 hours prior to meetings under TCA 8-44-110. The latest policy paper explains the law and what it means for local planning agencies.

>> Read the Policy Guide

The University of Tennessee System is aligning key functions to grow its impact for Tennessee through the creation of a new division that brings together public service, government relations and economic development efforts.

As I am writing, Mother’s Day is approaching. Every year around this time I remember a 1970s television commercial Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant made for South Central Bell telephone company. He closed the commercial by saying, “Have you called your mama today? I sure wish I could call mine.” You can view it here.

Herb Byrd, vice president of the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service (IPS), will retire Sept. 30 following 40 years of dedicated service to the University of Tennessee and the state.

A three-time UT alumnus, Byrd began his career with UT Extension, serving nearly three decades in communities across Tennessee as a 4-H agent, county director, and leader in agricultural and resource development. He later advanced to leadership roles within IPS and was named vice president in 2016 after serving in an interim capacity beginning in 2014.

You may have heard that being a high-performance team means you must constantly grind 24/7. True intensity is not about how many hours we sit at some desk. It is about how much focus and energy we bring to the hours that matter. Building an intense and sustainable culture means we need to work like athletes: we are all-in during the game but then prioritize recovery to show up sharp again tomorrow. World-class cultures are built through good strategies and world-class habits.

Leadership makes a difference in the success of organizations and communities. Having great leadership can also be the catalyst for a positive and high energy workplace. 

Servant leadership has gained significant traction in both public and private sectors as a practical approach to leadership that prioritizes the needs of others, fosters community and empowers individuals to perform at their best. Within the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service (IPS), which focuses on delivering expert training, consulting and research to support government officials and businesses, servant leadership plays a critical role in meeting the customer service needs of its stakeholders.