2023 Fall Recipients

Kathy Booker

Pesticides Administrator
Agriculture

Kathy Booker began her career with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) in 1981 as a laboratory technician. In her 40+ years of service, Kathy has served as a chemist, product registration specialist, and certification and licensing supervisor. She now serves as Pesticides Administrator, overseeing a team of employees focused on the safe and proper use, sale, and distribution of pesticides statewide.

Kathy has expressed servant leadership through a variety of other roles, including serving as president of the Association of the Southern Feed, Fertilizer, and Pest Control Officials; a member of the Tennessee Vegetation Management Association; chair of the EPA Region IV Pre-SFIREG; and director of the Southeastern Jurisdiction for United Methodist Women and Women’s Division. Kathy is also a graduate of the Tennessee Government Management Institute (TGMI). In 2021, the Tennessee Pest Control Industry presented Kathy with a Lifetime Achievement Award for her commitment, contribution, and service to the industry.

Kathy holds a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry with a minor in sociology from Tennessee State University. In her free time, Kathy enjoys listening to all types of music and collecting cookbooks, with the added note that the keyword is ‘collecting,’ not ‘cooking.’

LaShonda Randolph

Director of Professional Development
Children's Services

LaShonda Randolph joined the Department of Children’s Services (DCS) in 2012 as the Director of Professional Development. With over 35 years of experience in child welfare, she is responsible for pre-service and in-service training for DCS case managers and developed the training curriculum for all incoming new case managers. Additionally, LaShonda developed a poverty simulation learning lab to help new hires better understand the complexities of poverty and its impact on children and families.

Since assuming her position, LaShonda has served as the co-facilitator for the department’s Racial Justice Workgroup, and she represents the Enterprise Council for the state’s Diversity and Equity Council.

LaShonda holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice, a Master of Science in criminal justice, and a Master of Business Administration. She is a dedicated wife and mother, and in her free time, LaShonda enjoys reading and cooking for her loved ones.

Ashley Smith

Regulatory Board Investigator
Commerce and Insurance

Ashley Smith began her career with the Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) with the Motor Vehicle Commission in September of 2003. Throughout her 21 years of state service, Ashley has made it her mission to provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers, including those she now serves as a Regulatory Board Investigator.

Ashley holds a degree from Middle Tennessee State University. She also attended the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA), where she became a certified police officer prior to working for TDCI.

Ashley is originally from Murfreesboro and now owns a farm with her husband and daughter in Bell Buckle. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, attending church, and serving as the Entertainment Director and as a board member of the American Mule and Bluegrass Festival. This nonprofit organization that Ashley volunteers her time with donates the festival’s proceeds to veterans’ organizations.

Jerri Avery

Investigative Officer
Correction

Jerri Avery started her career with the Department of Correction (TDOC) in 2012 as a Correctional Officer. After 19 years of service, Jerri now serves as an Investigative Officer for the Northwest Correctional Complex Internal Affairs office.

Jerri is described as a knowledgeable and results-oriented subject matter expert in the field of investigation and law enforcement. She is a valued correctional professional who demonstrates excellence and high performance with an unwavering commitment to public safety. Regarding her work, Jerri said that she most enjoys “working with the offenders and their families while knowing that I help maintain safety in both my facility and my community.”

Jerri enjoys spending time with her family, and she is an active member of her church. She volunteers as a junior high Sunday school teacher and serves as president of her church’s Usher Board.

Yolanda Mitchell

Executive Assistant 
Economic and Community Development

Yolanda Mitchell began working for Tennessee State Government as a Receptionist and Administrative Assistant for the Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) in November of 2018. In August of 2021, Yolanda was promoted to Executive Assistant to the Commissioner at TNECD.

For the past 5 years, Yolanda has proven herself to be a dependable and beneficial asset to the team. She has made it her mission to go above and beyond for the department and her peers to make the workplace a welcoming environment for all who conduct business with the state. Every undertaking and task she encounters is handled with great professionalism. She is a very team-oriented individual, always willing to lend a helping hand to others.

Yolanda holds credits towards a degree in mass communication from Tennessee State University, and she has two daughters, Tanessa and Dionne. Before beginning her employment with the state, Yolanda worked in the radio industry for over 25 years as a traffic manager at several top-rated stations in Nashville. In 2022, Yolanda graduated from the Administrative Professionals Academy, and she continues to welcome opportunities for growth. If asked what the best part of her job is, Yolanda would say getting to know and serve the community and state of Tennessee. 

Taylor Rayfield

Senior Manager of Family Support and Engagement
Education

Taylor Rayfield began his career with the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) in 2020 as the State Coordinator of Family Resource Centers. Most recently, his purview expanded and now serves as the Senior Manager of Family Support and Engagement. Prior to joining the department, Taylor served as the Coordinator of Family Resources for Coffee County Schools for four years and as a student management coordinator for two years.

Taylor is known by colleagues as a hardworking individual who goes above and beyond to serve the students, families, and schools of Tennessee. He embodies a high level of integrity in the work that he does internally and externally. Taylor holds himself and his colleagues to a high standard while maintaining a focus on advancing outcomes for the department and the students he serves.

Taylor holds an Associate of Science in business education from Motlow State Community College, Bachelor of Arts in management and human relations from Trevecca Nazarene University, Master of Education in counseling, administration & supervision from Middle Tennessee State University, and will earn his Specialist in Education (EdS) in educational leadership & counselor leadership from East Tennessee State University in May. In his free time, Taylor enjoys serving his community in various philanthropic efforts, currently supporting the Dusty Elam Foundation and Sportsmen and Business Charitable Organization. Over the years, he has served his community as a past president of Manchester Rotary Club, commissioner of the Greater Manchester Economic Development, commissioner for Manchester Tourism and Community Development, and an ambassador for Manchester Chamber of Commerce. In 2016, the Manchester Chamber of Commerce presented Taylor with an award for outstanding community service. In 2021, Motlow State Community College recognized Taylor as its young alumni one to watch.

Art Ingman

Audit Manager
Environment and Conservation

Art Ingman currently serves as the Audit Manager for the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) Bureau of Conservation. Art began his career with the state in 1985 with the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasure, then later served as a sales tax auditor for the Department of Revenue. In 1997, he started his own accounting practice and continued as a public accountant until 2015, when he returned to the public sector as a TDEC employee.

Art oversees the audit function for all park operations, and he is known for his knowledge, policy insight, and expertise in risk/internal controls. He has been an instrumental member of the group of state auditors who collaborate with the Executive Internal Auditor (EIA) since its inception. Art’s work consistently reflects an attention to detail, is prepared in timely manner, and is always very effective.

Art holds a degree in accounting and finance from Tennessee Tech University. Art is from Brentwood and is happily married to his wife of 35 years, Jenny. They have two adult daughters, Victoria and Stephanie.

Nneka Norman-Gordon

Talent Management Assistant Director
Finance and Administration

Nneka Norman-Gordon currently serves as the Talent Management Assistant Director for the Department of Finance and Administration (F&A). However, she began her career with the Department of Human Resources (DOHR) as a Personnel Examinations Analyst in 2004. In her 18+ years of service, Nneka has also worked with the Department of Human Services (DHS) as the Senior Talent Management Specialist and Public Information and Legislative Director of Operations, as well as the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury as an Associate Legislative Research Analyst.

Nneka is described as quick-thinking and proactive. She is adept at troubleshooting issues and resolves problems in a timely manner. She is a trusted colleague with a customer-centric approach, and her insight is invaluable to her team.

Nneka holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology. Prior to her state government career, Nneka was a United States Naval Officer. In addition to being a veteran herself, Nneka is an Air Force brat who loves competitive weightlifting and listening to New Kids on the Block.

Chad Holbert

Chief Administrator of Trust 
Financial Institutions

Chad Holbert began his career with the Department of Financial Institutions (TDFI) as a Bank Examiner in July of 2006. Chad has been promoted through the bank examiner ranks during his 17+ years with the state, serving as the East Tennessee Trust Specialist, Program Administrator of Trust, and his current position as Chief Administrator of Trust, providing oversight to the administration of the Trust Section of the Bank Division since 2021.

Chad is a dedicated leader who values his people and the work of the Trust section. He prioritizes excellent customer service and promotes trust activity in Tennessee. Banks, trust companies, and attorneys are complimentary of his helpfulness and willingness to go the extra mile on their behalf.

Chad holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a major in finance, from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. He also attended the Cannon Financial Institute, where he was an Honors Graduate and received the professional certification of Certified Fiduciary and Investment Risk Specialist.

Aaron Simmons

Program Manager, VAM Operations
General Services

Aaron Simmons began working with the Department of General Services (DGS) in 2005 after spending five years working with the Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD). Aaron currently serves as a Program Manager, overseeing the VAM Operations team. He and his team’s responsibilities include procurement, assignment, tags and registration, and fuel cards.

Customers regularly praise Aaron’s attentiveness and commitment to customer service. Aaron is often a customer’s first contact with DGS, and he helps them navigate state processes with patience and positivity. His 18 years of service have provided him with vast knowledge and experience that make him a valuable resource to the team, division, and department.

Aaron lives in Smyrna with his wife and two sons.

Michele Weatherbie

Registered Nurse 3
Health

Michele Weatherbie is a Registered Nurse (RN) 3 in Jefferson County and has been in state service for over 18 years. At the Department of Health (TDH), Michele is considered an invaluable resource to the East region. Her contributions have been critical in preventing errors, increasing patient safety and satisfaction, and ensuring the smooth operation in not only Jefferson County but all the 15 counties in the East Region.

Michele’s exceptional organizational skills and attentiveness coincide with her natural ability to quickly identify areas that need improvement in clinics. She has developed and updated coding sheets for clinics that ensure accuracy and improve operations. Along with her extensive knowledge of coding, Michele’s expertise has contributed to improvements in workflow and processes for nurses throughout TDH.

Michele graduated from Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.  She worked in Public Health in Ohio for 7 years before relocating to TN in 2005.  She started in Hamblen County then transferred to her home county of Jefferson in 2011.  She lives in Dandridge and enjoys all things water related by spending time on beautiful Douglas Lake.  

Tanika Arms

Director, State as a Model Employer (SAME) Program
Human Resources

Tanika Arms is the Director of the State as a Model Employer (SAME) Program for the Department of Human Resources (DOHR). Tanika began her state career in 2002 with DOHR as an Employee Relations Manager, and throughout her 19 years of service, she has also worked in the HR divisions for the Department of Children’s Services (DCS), the Board of Probation and Parole, and the Department of Correction (TDOC).

As the director of SAME, Tanika is leading the program for Tennessee State Government to become a model employer by creating an accessible and inclusive work environment for individuals with disabilities. Tanika is communicative and customer oriented. Her focus on integrity is evidenced by her reputation and commitment to excellence.

Tanika holds an associate degree in business management from Nashville State Community College. She is also a proud graduate of the Accelerated Leadership Institute (ALI), Lead TN Alliance 13, and she is a certified Windmills Trainer.

Melvin Davis

Field Management Director 3
Human Services

Melvin Davis began his career in the Department of Human Services (DHS) as a Temporary Eligibility Counselor in March of 2005, before being permanently hired as an Eligibility Counselor in 2006. After being promoted to CR FS1 in 2018, he was next promoted to Field Management Director 3 in 2020. Melvin's purview is District 7, West Tennessee. Melvin serves an area that has both rural and urban areas and manages both effectively.

Melvin provides exceptional service to his customers and staff. He demonstrates a commitment to quality and state regulations, continually improving in the quality arena. Melvin’s leadership is noted by his staff as empowering and supportive; he provides effective solutions that assist and enable his team to process cases, even through a major transformation to a new technology platform.

Melvin is a graduate of Tennessee Tech University. He is a Change Agent and Lead TN graduate. Melvin is a proud husband and father of three, and in his free time, he enjoys coaching little league sports.

Danielle Osborne

Occupational Therapist
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Danielle Osborne, MS, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist at the East Tennessee Seating and Positioning clinic, where she began her state service with the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) seven years ago in 2016. In her role, Danielle works closely with individuals and their caregivers to develop custom seating solutions and therapeutic positioning equipment to improve health outcomes and support independence and community engagement.

Danielle enjoys the creativity, family and caregiver collaboration, and problem-solving aspects of her role. She provides a compassionate approach with patients and caregivers, asking thoughtful questions to identify a variety of solutions to meet the family's needs. Her ability to think outside of the box and unwavering positivity are reflected in her willingness to go above and beyond for those she serves.

Danielle received her Master of Science in occupational therapy from Milligan University in 2011. She has been an occupational therapist for twelve years and worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient rehab, skilled nursing, and outpatient geriatrics. Danielle is an East Tennessee native and considers it a blessing to serve her fellow Tennesseans with physical and intellectual disabilities.

Edith Cook

Clerk 2, Internal Audit
Labor and Workforce Development

Edith Cook is truly a success story of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD). After staying home to care for an ailing relative, Edith decided to pursue additional education before re-entering the workforce. She attended TDLWD Adult Education classes and completed her needed education and training. Edith began working part-time as a Clerk 1 with the department, then transitioned into a fully time role in 1998. She has remained in Internal Audit as a Clerk 2 with TDLWD since.

Edith represents the department’s core values of communication and customer service well. Her daily attitude is positive and helpful, and she assists everyone by ensuring that processes are completed in a timely manner. Edith regularly asks how she can help, and her 26 years of state service have been invaluable to TDLWD.

Jane Meier

Psychiatric Hospital Inpatient Coordinator
Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services

Jane Meier began her dedicated career in state service in 1994 as a Teacher Assistant Psychiatric at Moccasin Bend Mental Health Institute (MBHMI), a facility managed by the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS). From 1996 to 2001, she served in Activity Therapy as a Psychiatric Teacher Counselor and was later promoted to Program Coordinator. In 2007, Jane was once again promoted to MH/MR Program Coordinator and served as Team Treatment Coordinator until 2020. In 2020, she transferred to the Treatment Mall, where she currently assigns patients to groups and assists with daily operations.

Jane consistently conducts herself in a customer-focused and professional manner. Her responsibilities are always completed to the highest standard. She truly cares about the staff and those served at MBMHI, and she brings hope to the people around her. Jane is always willing to help her peers and has volunteered to take on extra assignments, plan activities, and share her knowledge.

Jane graduated from East Tennessee State University in December 1993 with a degree in elementary education. At MBMHI, she is an active member of the employee Retention and Morale Committee and maintains a seasonal recovery board that encourages patients.

Jason Arbogast

Operations Administrator, TEMA
Military

Jason Arbogast began his career with the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) in 2006 as an Operations Officer in the TEMA Watch Point. During his tenure at TEMA, Jason has been promoted to several roles, including Operations Supervisor, Radiological Planner 2, Middle Region District Coordinator, and Logistics Manager. In 2021, Jason was promoted to his current role of Operations Administrator, where he is leads the Watch Point team, where he originally began his career.

In his role, Jason manages a team of fourteen Operations Officers and the TEMA Meteorology Office. He acts as the State Direction and Control Officer for the State Emergency Operations Center during disaster activations. The emergency management field often includes long workdays, and Jason often volunteers to take on additional duties and shifts so others can take a needed day off. Jason exemplifies the customer-focused TEMA motto, “Failure is not an option.”

Prior to joining TEMA, Jason served in the U.S. Army for eight years as a Military Police Officer. He was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and returned to serve as Force Protection during the final part of his tour of duty.

Romany Hanna

Vehicle Services Manager
Revenue

Romany Hanna began his career with Vehicles Services in the Department of Revenue (DOR) in 2008 as an Account Technician 1, and in 2016, he was promoted to Vehicles Services Supervisor in the Motor Carrier unit.

In 2017, Romany assisted TR3 developers as they incorporated the system into the Motor Carrier unit and assisted the unit with transitioning to the new system. In 2021, Romany collaborated with Motor Carrier management to develop a unit-specific training for new employees, and he has successfully completed 6-week sessions of training for 15 employees since. Romany conducts bi-annual refresher training courses for the Motor Carrier staff, tests system updates, maintains plate inventory, and prepares and prints IRP/IFTA credentials for weekly mailing. Romany handles these additional assignments while exceedingly daily, weekly, and monthly work expectations.

Romany earned a bachelor’s degree in education technology from Asyut University (Egypt) in 1999 and worked as a computer science teacher for one year before moving to the United States in 2000. He is currently completing an associate degree in accounting from Nashville Community College. Romany is married and has three sons, Mena, Matthew, and Emmanuel, and he just celebrated his 15-year anniversary with Tennessee State Government.

Casey Goggin

Senior Associate Counsel
Safety and Homeland Security

Casey Goggin began her career with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDSHS) as a part-time legal assistant while she was attending Belmont University. Upon admission to the Tennessee Bar, Casey was hired as an Associate Counsel and was recently promoted to Senior Associate Counsel.

Since joining TDSHS, Casey has always put customer service at the forefront of her work. Casey recognizes the department’s profound responsibility to ensure that first responders have the best possible radio coverage across the state, and she is on the front lines of developing processes that make the program more accessible for stakeholders. She goes above and beyond to ensure that each customer receives the most professional, accurate, and efficient response possible. Casey is constantly gathering information to learn how to improve and provide better service to the public and the department.

Casey holds a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience from Baylor University and a Juris Doctor from Belmont University. Casey takes pride in working for TDSHS and being a member of Tennessee State Government.

Anna Lea Cothron

System Transformation Director
TennCare

Anna Lea Cothron was born and raised in Middle Tennessee, and she has spent her career in a variety of positions in the aging and disability network. In 2021, Anna Lea joined the Division of TennCare as the System Transformation Director, where she leads efforts to make the long-term services and supports system better for older adults and people with disabilities. Prior to her current role, Anna Lea served as the legislative liaison for the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability (TCAD).

In every interaction, Anna Lea consistently brings value and engagement to her role. She has embedded person-centered values into all the work she leads, inspiring conversation that incorporates all perspectives into recommendations, action steps, and participation. Her investments in building relationships have produced meaningful impact for Tennesseans. Aside from offering 20 years of hands-on experience, Anna Lea is known for her strong interpersonal skills, authentic leadership, and strategic thinking.

Anna Lea earned her Master of Public Administration from Tennessee State University and her undergraduate degree from Middle Tennessee State University. She is married and has two young daughters.

Dawn Grooms

Business Manager
Tourist Development

Dawn Grooms joined the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) in 2018 as a Business Manager. In her role, Dawn serves both internal and external customers with expediency and integrity.

Since coming on board with Tourist Development, Dawn has always gone above and beyond to make customers and teammates feel seen and appreciated. Whenever challenges are brought to Dawn, she makes a point to be professional and helpful while resolving issues and ensuring that needs are met. Dawn’s background in banking and budget have shaped her perspective of the importance of positive customer service and professionalism. She has become a trusted and valuable member of the Tourism Team and enjoys helping all areas of the department.

Before joining TDTD, Dawn began her career with the state at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) in 2014 as a budget analyst. She earned Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in finance from the University of Tennessee at Martin. Dawn lives in Dickson with her husband, Justin, and their two children, Wyatt and Madelyn. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, travelling to new places, and being outdoors as much as possible.

Clayton Markham

Director of Alternative Delivery
Transportation

Clayton joined the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) in 2008. In his tenure with TDOT, he has served as a Roadway Specialist in the Design Division, Operations District Supervisor for the Construction Office in Columbia, CE Manager 1 in the HQ Construction Office, and Region 3 Alternative Contracting CE Manager 2. Presently, Clayton is TDOT’s Director of Alternative Delivery. 

At TDOT, Clayton has worked on some of the department’s highest-profile projects. Not only was he the lead project manager over the Broadway Bridge Project, but he also managed the I-440 project in Nashville. He consistently strives to improve TDOT’s design-build guidelines alongside the CMGC guidelines. His ability to innovate improves the process flow of projects, decreasing construction time and costs. Clayton works collaboratively with his team and the department’s partners to share ideas, skills, and achieve the best results.

Clayton is a licensed engineer and holds a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Tennessee Technological University (TTU), a master’s in civil engineering from the University of Tennessee (UT), and a master’s in business administration from TTU.

Lynn Bond

Veterans Services Officer
Veteran's Services

Lynn Bond joined the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS) in 2019 as a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). Before joining TDVS, Lynn served 26 years in the United States Air Force before retiring in 2013 as a Chief Master Sergeant. Her last military assignments included serving as the Squadron Superintendent and the Superintendent of Passenger Policy and Transformation Branches.

After retiring from the Air Force, Lynn completed three years of nursing school. Her military and medical backgrounds have proven to be extremely beneficial for gathering and submitting medical evidence in support of filing Veterans Affairs (VA) claims. Lynn’s dedication to excellence is reflected in the many error-free claims submitted to the VA each month, and her commitment and advocacy for veterans is evident in the engagements she conducts throughout the region.

Lynn’s favorite part of being a VSO is “improving the lives of veterans and their families by connecting them with resources and benefits.”