History of the Program:

In 1999, the Department of Human Resources determined mid-level managers should be developed in a program similar to the Tennessee Government Executive Institute (TGEI). After almost a year of study, analysis and discussion, a two-week, mid-level manager institute was created and included in the 2000 Statewide Strategic Plan through the objective: “To create opportunities for employees to achieve their highest potential.” One of the strategies stated: “Develop capable managers through the establishment of the Tennessee Government Management Institute (TGMI) for the group of managers immediately below those served by TGEI.” During 2000, Department of Human Resources staff worked in partnership with the University of Tennessee to develop TGMI curriculum. Three TGMI classes have been held since its inception graduating 90 participants from 26 agencies. In late 2000, a TGMI Alumni Network was formed to work in conjunction with the Department of Human Resources.

Mission Statement:

To provide mid-level managers in Tennessee State Government with management education, networking opportunities and leadership development to become more effective managers and prepare for the leadership challenges of the future.

Value of the Program:

TGMI Alumni best describe the value of this program through their own testimonials.

I cannot encourage future administrations enough to keep the very valuable TGMI program. As a Training Coordinator for the Division of Rehabilitation Services, I have experienced any number of training activities and was somewhat reluctant to be in such an intense program with people I did not know. What I didn’t understand was that the point was for life experiences and me to be “out of my element” where I would have a more open attitude to different points of view, different work. The people that I met there were the persons of highest integrity and work ethic who gave lie to the negative stereotypes of State employees that have recently filled the airwaves. They made me proud to do what I do and to work where I work. The relationships that I established in the group have continued to benefit me professionally in that I have people in almost any section of State government that I can call for questions or assistance. It is a wonderful program.
	Connie Phillips ’01 Human Services
My participation in TGMI has been the most positive experience I have had in state government. Networking with managers across state agencies has given me a greater understanding of how state government as a whole operates. Most of all, it is reassuring to know that I have a TGMI class member to call on if I need something from another department or advice about how to solve systems issues so I can more effectively run my own department.
	Cindy Murdock-Elliott ’00 Human Services
I feel so fortunate to participate in the very first year of TGMI and gain a great comrade of people from other departments in our state. It is easy to sustain tunnel vision from within one department and remain frustrated with the bureaucracy. TGMI helped significantly to broaden my understanding and consequently my commitment to Tennessee. The TGMI program opened avenues of communication proving that as a whole entity state government works at its best when we recognize, utilize and appreciate our interdependence as departments.
	Nancy Patterson ’00 Children’s Services
While this may sound a little “over the top”, for me TGMI was really a life-changing experience. I now view my work, family, and friends in a different light. I pursue decision-making differently and, I think better, since TGMI.
	Tim Weaver ’02 Transportation
Attending TGMI was the most rewarding event of my State career. I’m thankful for what I learned from the work exercises and materials presented, but for the opportunity to meet and get to know all the great people from other areas of State Government. Establishing this network has proven to be the most lasting benefit of my TGMI experience.
	Les Allen ’00 TRICOR
TGMI was a life changing experience for me. It opened my eyes to the true purpose and function of State Government. There are so many dedicated public servants out there giving of themselves for their organization. I know of at least three instances during the last year where I have been able to call someone from another agency (that I knew from TGMI), and either get vital information from them and work out a solution or give them some information that affected the way they approached an issue. This program is vitally important to the improved management of state government. People need to gain this perspective as a middle manager to better direct their efforts in their organization.
	Greg Duncan ’01 Transportation
TGMI came to me at a very important time I my life, even though I didn’t realize it at the time. It has been the best experience in my nineteen years of government service.
	Chuck Holland ’00 TRICOR
In my 28+ years of employment with the State of Tennessee, I have never received training that was comparable to TGMI. The overall program defies description. It goes beyond leadership training and networking to creating a bond with the other class members and an awareness of their place in State Government. We have made a connection that will facilitate our business relationships and allow all of us to work together to do the best jobs possible for the people of Tennessee.
	Carolyn Stonecipher ’02 Transportation
TGMI helped me in various ways. It reinforced my need to plan ahead, getting the input and support of my staff, setting attainable goals and objectives, and monitoring the group’s progress as we go. By meeting and interacting with people in different departments, TGMI gave me a perspective of how my division fits into the scheme of the entire state. It was a very rewarding experience.
	Hal Jones ’00 Revenue
I just want to say that the time and money spent on the 2002 TGMI experience was well worth it. I have come back as a much more enthusiastic, better-prepared THDA employee.
	Debbie Reeves ’02 Tennessee Housing Development Agency