The fall season is a great time of year in Tennessee! 

The changing of the leaves throughout the state but especially in the Great Smoky Mountains, football season, the beginning of the school, and anticipation of upcoming holidays.  For state government leadership it also means it is time for an annual leadership conference.  The TGL and others have been hard at work planning a great conference on Wednesday, October 29th.  The conference theme this year- Imagineering, Integrity and Impact - features state leaders as our keynote speakers, in depth discussion on leadership and what it means in state government, and a panel discussion of state leaders who have played a role in being innovative to solve state government issues and the impact it has had on Tennessee.  We will also highlight and celebrate three black belt recipients and their Pay It Forward projects.  

Information about the conference:
Wednesday, October 29th
Tennessee Room, Tennessee Tower
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Registration is $175

Contract your agency’s HR team for information on how to register. 
We look forward to seeing you on October 29th.
Seannalyn Brandmeir
TGLC Chair
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The TGLC Black Belt Program has been a growing area within the leadership community providing a plethora of examples of true leadership in state government growing personally and professionally to lengths beyond expectations.  The Black Belt Committee is proud to report on the achievements this year so far as belts have been awarded at two of our award ceremonies to include three black belts being awarded to John Johnson, Shawn Puckett, and Keye Blackmon as they completed their projects in service to others this year.  The TGLC Black Belt Committee is proud to have presented them their belts at the last award ceremony and will recognize them and provide an overview of their projects at the TGLC Conference later this month.  Thank you all for continuing to inspire others, growing as leaders, and sharing your experiences with all. – TGLC Black Belt Committee

Elevate Your Career with TGL Toastmasters!
As proud alumni of a Tennessee Government Leadership (TGL) program, you've already demonstrated a commitment to professional growth. Now, continue that journey and accelerate your career with TGL Toastmasters! Our club offers a dynamic and supportive environment to further enhance the communication and leadership skills critical for workplace success.

Why TGL Toastmasters for Your Career?
In today's professional landscape, strong soft skills are in high demand. Our club provides a unique, hands-on learning experience that directly translates to career advancement. We are specifically designed for graduates of Tennessee Government Leadership programs, understanding the specific needs of our workforce and fostering a community of like-minded professionals.

Key Career Benefits You'll Gain:
Confident Public Speaking
Strong Leadership Acumen
Effective Feedback & Improvement
Real-World Skill Practice
Strategic Networking
Structured Professional Development
Mentorship for Growth
TGL Black Belt Points

Investment in Your Future:
At just $20 per month (plus a one-time new member fee), Toastmasters is a highly affordable and effective alternative to expensive professional development courses. The return on investment in enhanced communication and leadership skills is invaluable for your career trajectory.

Debunking Career-Related Myths:

"I already give presentations at work." Toastmasters helps you refine your style, receive objective feedback, and truly master impactful delivery.

"I don't 'give speeches' at my job." Every professional interaction – from team updates to pitching ideas – is a form of communication that Toastmasters will elevate, helping you communicate in a more structured, meaningful, and convincing way.

"I don't have the time." Many busy professionals, including members at all management levels, view the small time commitment as a critical investment in their long-term career success.

Ready to Boost Your Career?
Join us and experience the benefits firsthand! We meet every Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CST / 12:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. EST on Microsoft Teams. You are always welcome to visit as a guest!

Contact Us
Email: officers-4310000@toastmastersclubs.org
Club Website: https://4310000.toastmastersclubs.org

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🎃 TGMI Alumni Pumpkin Patch Scavenger Hunt is On! 🍂

October 1–31, 2025
Get ready to explore the patch! The Tennessee Government Management Institute (TGMI) Alumni Group is thrilled to launch the Pumpkin Patch Scavenger Hunt — a virtual, fall-themed adventure running all October long.

This isn’t just about fun — it’s a challenge! Your mission: locate and document specific items from our curated scavenger hunt list. Each item is tied to the spirit of the season and the TGMI community, and it’s up to you to find them — whether at home, in your office, or out in the world.

🎯 What’s in the Patch?
A list of fall-themed items to find and submit
A virtual form to track your discoveries
A chance to show off your creativity and attention to detail
Recognition for those who complete the hunt!

You can complete the hunt at your own pace anytime between October 1 and 31, but only one submission per person is allowed. Whether you find a few items or go for the full patch, your participation helps bring our alumni community together in a fun and festive way.  

Let’s see how many pumpkin patch items you can find!

Be sure to share your photos on Facebook and LinkedIn using #TGMIFallReconnect and #TGMIAlumni

Please contact the following with any further questions:
Brett Wendel @ Brett.Wendel@tn.gov  or 615-339-4359
Christina Gold @ Christina.Gold@tn.gov or 615-354-3036
Kimberly Henry @ Kimberly.Henry@tn.gov or 615-741-2562

12/16/2025 from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. “Daring Greatly” By Brene Brown