About Us

For more than 80 years, the Vinson Institute has worked with public officials throughout Georgia and around the world to improve governance and people's lives. From Georgia's early days as a largely agrarian state with a modest population to its modern-day status as a national and international force in business, industry, and politics with a population of almost 10 million, the Institute has helped government leaders navigate change and forge strong directions for a better Georgia.

Divisions

Institute faculty and staff contribute a broad range of expertise and experience that enriches the many services provided to governments and communities.

Director's Office

Laura Meadows, Director

The initial point of contact for clients and the general public, the Director's Office provides leadership for the Institute within the University and throughout the state.

Director's Office Faculty & Staff >>

Governmental Services and Research Division

David Tanner, Associate Director

Whether by helping a local government evaluate its operating procedures, conducting an economic-impact study, or carrying out a public-opinion survey, the Governmental Services and Research division provides needs-based research, analysis, and assistance to state and local officials on diverse policy, management, and operational issues.

View a list of some of our research and services.

Governmental Services and Research Faculty & Staff >>

Governmental Training, Education, and Development Division

Stacy Jones, Associate Director

Making certain that a newly elected official understands the powers and limitations of his or her office, teaching a state government accountant or city or county clerk about new regulations, or providing opportunities for state and local officials to enhance their leadership skills are all part of a day’s work for faculty and staff in the Governmental Training, Education, and Development division.

View a list of quality customized training and consultation programs provided for elected and appointed officials, managers, boards, and authorities.

Governmental Training, Education, and Development Faculty & Staff >>

Information Technology Outreach Services

Eric McRae, Associate Director

As a nationally recognized leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) innovation, the Information Technology Outreach Services (ITOS) division provides sophisticated technological services to support government and community activities. ITOS’s work has included providing tax parcel mapping for local governments, Web applications for the United Nations, new mapping standards for the National Hydrography Dataset, and decision-making tools for private utilities.

ITOS Web site >>

Information Technology Outreach Services Faculty & Staff >>

International Center

Rusty Brooks, Associate Director

For nations in transition, making government more efficient, transparent, and responsive can seem daunting. The Institute's International Center is a guiding force around the globe, aiding the process through instruction, assistance, and research in public administration best practices.

International Center Web site >>

International Center Faculty & Staff >>

Office of Administration

Karen Barger, Associate Director

Through coordination of all Institute internal business related to finances, information technology, and personnel and facilities management, the Office of Administration ensures that the Institute is operating at optimal capacity so that its faculty and staff can respond readily to client needs.

Office of Administration Faculty & Staff >>

Office of Communications

Joycelyn Trigg, Communications Director

The Office of Communications is responsible for conveying information about the full range of services provided by the Vinson Institute to current and potential clients and the general public through such activities as creating and maintaining the Web site, handling media inquiries, producing materials, and coordinating marketing and public relations. The office also coordinates publication and distribution of relevant Institute research.

Office of Communications Faculty & Staff >>

Print This Share This Bookmark This