Leaders Learn Here

By Leanne Kleinmann

It’s no secret that government service — including elected office — is built on relationships, and perhaps no credential is more powerful if you’re interested in government or public service in this part of the world than a degree from the University of Memphis. In this edition of the University of Memphis Magazine, we profile some of the many remarkable UofM alumni who have chosen government service, in one way or another, as a career.

These civic leaders remember their time at the UofM fondly, from the professors they had to the friends they made, even if it’s been decades since they were on campus.

“The University of Memphis allows for an environment where our future elected officials get to know each other in getting to know the city,” said Katie VanLandingham, former UofM Vice President, Governmental and Community Affairs.

Many students who later end up in government service participated in the Tennessee Intercollegiate State Legislature through the UofM, according to VanLandingham, “which allowed them to meet other political leaders from across the state. Getting to network with each other really helps them in their political careers, because they rise through the ranks together.”

The University is also a major player in facilitating grants and other state initiatives in West Tennessee and in partnerships across the state, which Ken Moody, Senior Director of Local and Community Relations, discovered when he began working at the UofM in 2023.

“We love to see our elected officials visiting campus to see the changes that have happened since their time at the University of Memphis,” VanLandingham said. “We are really lucky to have alumni who care in these positions. A lot of them have stepped up in times when they were really needed; and even now, they call us and ask how they can help, how they can be a part.

“That’s so important. It’s up to the alumni to help with the trajectory of where the University goes next.”

“This University is broadly involved in this community in more ways than people even know,” said Moody, a two-time UofM graduate. “We’ve got so much to offer, but we have to make sure the community knows what we’re doing and that we’re always looking for ways to work better with them.”

Alumni who have carved a career in government service play a unique role in the future of both the University and the areas it serves. The UofM is eager for their help.