Can you tell us about your professional journey and current position?
I started my local government career in 1996 when I joined the Winston-Salem (NC) Fire Department as a firefighter. I continued to advance through the ranks until I reached the position of Assistant Chief. After serving five years as an Assistant Chief, I accepted my first Fire Chief job with the City of Valdosta (GA). I spent five years in Valdosta before taking a job as the Fire Chief with the City of South Fulton (GA). After a prestigious career in the fire service that ended with being named the 2019 Georgia Fire Chief of the Year and receiving a Leadership Proclamation from the State of Georgia’s Office of Insurance and Fire Safety Commissioner, I started working as a Member Services Consultant at Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). GMA is the only state organization representing all 537 municipal governments in Georgia and is responsible for providing legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit, and technical consulting services. Currently, as the new Director of Equity and Inclusion, I work within GMA and externally with Elected Officials, City Administrators, and leaders within the business and community organizations across the state of Georgia to educate and advocate the importance of fostering relationships, community engagement, and embracing equity, and inclusion for the betterment of all.
What contributed to your decision to pursue an MPA degree?
While I was advancing in the fire services, my career aspiration was to work in upper management one day. After researching different degrees, I narrowed my decision to either an MBA or MPA degree. After attending the App State MPA Open House, I knew I had found the right school and right program for my next educational endeavor. I felt it was more beneficial for me to pursue an MPA to continue advancing in my career.
How did the App State MPA program prepares you to work in government, nonprofit, or the private sector?
My App State MPA degree is the foundation of my career success. Not only did it help me get promoted to leadership roles, but it also prepared me to excel in those leadership roles. I also work as an adjunct instructor, in which I applied the knowledge obtained in the program to teach and make presentations across the United States in developing future leaders in the fire service, which was the research of my capstone project. I also gained the confidence and a substantial understanding of local government management that enhanced my ability and skill to work effectively with Elected Officials and City Administrators to help deliver efficient government.
What advice would you give to individuals considering the App State MPA program?
Since graduating from App State in 2012, I have encouraged friends and colleagues to attend the App State MPA program. The program will prepare individuals for advancement in the local government and equip them with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed.
If hiring, what would you look for in new graduates of the App State MPA program?
In my previous role as a hiring manager, I always looked for a combination of education and experience for qualification purposes. However, when making a final decision, I always looked for the best fit for the organization. The App State MPA program prepares the new graduate student to meet the qualification. However, to be considered the "best fit," I recommend being involved within your current profession by participating in various associations and joining professional organizations like ICMA, ELGL, and SHRM. Also, it is essential to be active within the community.
