Signing off...

What were the most important things you learned from this internship? Look back to your first blog post. Did you meet your initial goals? Why or why not?

Wow! I can't believe my time at the Town of Gilbert is coming to an end! Where does the time go? I can't help but feel sad that I will be leaving in the next few weeks. As I reflect on my internship this fall, I can't help but think of a quote from one of my favorite musicals, Wicked. The lead character turns to her best friend and says:

Well, I whole heartedly believe this is true, because the people and experiences I have learned during my internship has changed me for good. Coming to work was the highlight of my day. I was extremely fortunate to be part of a team that challenged me to continuously grow in ways I never thought possible. I learned so much about working in municipal government such as the inner dynamics of personnel relationships, the role of government and how it affects the administration of programs and project funding, the collaborative partnerships between local and state governments and the importance of nonprofits and face-based communities to help governments serve their citizens. I refined and honed my policy analysis, research, and writing skills in addition to interviewing and program and project analysis. My internship allowed me to work in a wide array of areas from human services, volunteering, zoning and design review, and e-cigarette regulations. I even challenged myself in areas of weakness such as public speaking. Speaking in front of Town staff, the executive team, and the TOWN COUNCIL was one of the most anxiety inducing experiences I have ever had. Yet, I was able to conquer my fears to give some of the best presentations I've ever given in my life. 

That brings me to one of the most important lessons I have learned during my internship. By conquering my public speaking and networking fears, I found something I never expected to find. I found my voice. The Intergovernmental Relations team let me know I was a person of worth and as such I should command respect and attention. I could go on about this, but I think I would like to keep it where it is.

There are so many people I'm going to miss now that I think about it. My Wonder Woman awesomesauce boss, Leah Hubbard; My brilliant supervisor, Heather Wikley; My fun and easy-going co-worker, Kurt Sharp; My lovable and dearest co-worker, Vickie; My other supervisor queen of the Gilbert-verse, Andi; and last but not least one of the funniest, personable, and seriously my home skillet supervisor, Gabe.


I'm extremely grateful for the experiences and time that I have had here at the Town of Gilbert. I'm absolutely thankful for the people I have met and the memories I will keep for the rest of my life. I know this blog sounds super sentimental, but I'm in the holiday mood and I just had a glass of eggnog and some delicious christmas cookies. Happy Holidays everyone.

Santa visiting the Gilbert Police Department

The Intergov Team: Me, Leah, Vicky, and Heather

My Fiance and I: Merry Xmas

Town of Gilbert Volunteer Corp

One of the last projects I've had the pleasure working on during my time in Gilbert was to interview the volunteer coordinators for Parks and Rec, Police, and Fire in order to understand the collaborative partnerships between the town and nonprofit/faith based communities. One of my primary interest in working with the public sector is the collaborative partnerships between local government and nonprofit organizations. Therefore, I was delighted to learn more about the Town of Gilbert Volunteer services to facilitate my own interest in working in this area. Let me tell you, the Town of Gilbert has a very robust volunteer corp made up of passionate citizens and staff willing to go the extra mile for those in need. I was in awe by the sheer selflessness and vigor each volunteer approached their duties and responsibilities.

In my nonprofit classes, I learned volunteerism channels a citizens altruistic needs to solve social problems as well as build social cohesion with other community members. Citizens of Gilbert engage town volunteer services to care for the environment (Park clean up and recycling drives), help individuals in crisis (food boxes, counseling services, helping the homeless, etc) and create a safe community for all citizens (fire alarm check ups, ride along with officers, CPR training classes, safety education, school events). Some programs have volunteers who work 20 hours a week and are on call 24/7-365. The average retention rate for a fire volunteer is 3-5 years, when the national average is 1-2 years. That is how much the citizens of Gilbert love their community and helping others in need.

In addition to learning about the volunteers, I was able to meet the dedicated volunteer coordinators who run the volunteer programs as Parks and Rec, Fire, and Police. Let me tell you, I had no idea about volunteer coordination or the amount of work it takes to manage a robust volunteer corp. Not only do they work extra hard to recruit, train, and retain volunteers, but they also go above and beyond to recognize each and every one of them and the hard work they do. Over at the Fire Department, the coordinator, Kim Yonda-Lead, has created these "You've been spotted" appreciation cards she presents to volunteers who work extra hard at their jobs. They even have volunteer appreciation dinners and events. I love organizations that not only give back to their communities, but also shows every individual how special they are to the organization. That's what human services and community outreach is all about-making individuals feel connected and appreciated.

Last but not least, I got to meet the Fire dog, Spring, who is the most adorable lab I've ever met. She was initially a seeing eye dog, but failed to complete the program due to inability to resist food. The Fire Department adopted her as their Fire Dog and she's been with them ever since. Isn't she adorable?!

Stoking the Fire Within

I always make it a point to stop by the Mayor's office at least once or twice a week to chat briefly with one of the most down-to-earth and kind-hearted ladies I have ever had the privilege to meet. This angel's name is Vicky, the assistant to the Mayor of Gilbert and if you meet her, you will immediately succumb to her sweet smile and cheery disposition. I'm absolutely serious! If a care bear could take human form, it would be Vicky! Not only will she bend over backward to lend an ear or a hand in times of need, but she goes out of her way to make your day shine. I always tell her that I pop in to steal candy off Mayor's Lewis' desk, but in actuality it's to get a positive, non-sugary energy boost from her. 

Anyhow, I stopped by to grab a snickers from the Mayors desk and talk to Vicky briefly before heading to a meeting. I've been having a difficult time this semester juggling school, family, and several lovely, unexpected life situations all at the same time. Today was one of those days, and I knew Vicky would be the person I would need to drive the clouds away. She talked in length about a leadership retreat she went to twenty five years ago that cost a whopping $1k to attend. She was amongst CEO's, bankers, and high profile business owners at this intensive leadership retreat that basically broke you down to the core of  your being only to build you back up with the skills to become a highly effective leader. She went on in detail about the things they would do and how exhausting the program was on her psychologically, emotionally, and physically. Vicky mentioned she would go home and cry tears of frustrations and fatigue from the grinding exercises and activities she performed day after day. They told her at the beginning that 2-3 people quit every year, but she was headstrong and determined to make it through the entire program. 

When it came time to graduate, the graduates had to perform one final test to receive their diploma. They had to sing the Star Spangled Banner in front of 200 people present at the graduation. If you failed to show passion, energy, and resolve during your performance, the graduation committee would give you a thumbs down and then you would have to sing it OVER AGAIN! Vicky had to sing it twice-TWICE! She decided to give it her all and sing with every ounce of energy her heart and soul could muster. She sang with passion, strength, and commitment in front of a crowd of people she hardly knew. That takes guts. It takes what I call a "fire within" that an individual invokes to overcome great odds to achieve success. That fire within drove Vicky to do something most of us would never do due to fear. Being alone inside the den of lions with your adrenalin pumping and your life on the line draws your basic survival instinct to either fight or run away. Vicky decided to fight.  It took everything Vicky had to graduate from that grueling leadership seminar that tested her in every way imaginable. When the final vote came in she received a thumbs up. She passed. Victorious Vicky! 

She pointed to the quote on her wall, and she said that quote reminded her of her leadership retreat all those years ago. After reading it, I was filled with a renewed sense of energy and strength I lacked before I came to her desk. Vicky had stoked that fire within me to face whatever challenges I must overcome within the next few weeks. I'm extremely thankful for stopping by her desk this morning, because I needed that extra push up the mountain or in Vicky's case a second chance to singing the Star Spangled Banner.

Ahéhee': Thanksgiving

The Long Walk: The Navajo people being forcefully removed from their homeland

Thanksgiving has always been a difficult holiday for me to celebrate. As a Native American, I can't help but wince when I see thanksgiving pageants celebrating the first Thanksgiving between "Indians" and pilgrims.  I see children in paper Indian headband cutouts and run around making the "whooping" noise with their mouths. It's an unpleasant reminder that for many Americans, indigenous people have vanished with the dinosaurs or hidden in the pages of history textbooks with Christopher Columbus and Cortez. Yet, we are still here-vibrant, proud, and alive. So, while I do celebrate Thanksgiving, I give thanks to my ancestors who overcame genocide, assimilation, and acculturation so I can stand here today and continue working toward the betterment of my people. I give thanks to their dedication and tenacity to defy the odds and providing hope for the 7th generation. Ahéhee' (Thank you in Navajo). 

Career Services Write Up: MCLEAPS Internship

So, I'm applying for the MCLEAPS spring internship with the Treasures office! I was going to apply for it back in September, but graduate life has a funny way of weighing you down and the next thing you know the deadline has come and gone. So when I heard they were reposting a few of the positions, I knew it was a sign sent from Odin to apply.

When I glanced at the internship projects for the Treasure's office, I noticed records management was an area of focus.I have experience in records management (and even hold a certificate) working for the National Archives in Washington D.C. and in Seattle. So, naturally this peaked my interested along with policy and procedural research and implementation. While working for the Town of Gilbert, I have become fascinated with policy research and analysis and I wanted to explore this area even further at the Treasure's office.

So, I contacted my adviser to discuss the alignment of the MCLEAPS internship with my career goals, and she agreed this internship would be a wonderful opportunity for my academic and professional career. Then I contacted Maryjo, ASU's Public Affairs Career Specialist, about submitting my resume and letter of interest by the November 24th deadline. Since she helps other interns with the pre-application process with the MCLEAPS internships, she was able to present the necessary information to include in my resume and letter of interest.

 I also had the Assistant of the Town Manager take a look at my resume. He suggested editing my resume to exclude job experience that was no longer applicable to the position I was applying for. Furthermore, he said to refrain from repeating job duties that I've already stated in my resume. So, if I listed researching a public policy under a job description, I don't have to put "researched program procedures", under the same job, because I've already shown I have acquired researching skills. He shared his resume with me and I was absolutely floored! He was able to highlight the most important aspects in his work experience to create a comprehensive picture of all his qualifications and capabilities as strong candidate for a town manager. His cover letter was a well-written narrative that complemented his resume to present his best attributes and work experiences.

With the help of my adviser, Maryjo, and my boss, I was able to submit a  resume and cover letter that highlighted my strengths as a candidate for the MCLEAPS internship. I hope I am selected for an interview, so I have a chance to prove myself even further.

Ron Swanson aka Gabe E.

Working for local government has given me a new found appreciation for the show Parks and Rec. I now point out several things in the show and say "IT'S SO TRUE!" It also helps that I have a supervisor who reminds me of one of my favorite characters. My supervisor Gabe reminds me of Ron Swanson. There is an element of mystery that surrounds him. A man of many qualities with a vast breath of knowledge in almost all areas of local government. A Wikipedia of knowledge if you will. Just ask him anything from parks and rec to public works-He's your guy. Yet, he's pretty laid, back and down to earth. I can tell he's just a dude that you can kick it with for a bit...but don't over stay your welcome. That's where the Ron Swanson comes in-very no nonsense, down to business, "let's get this work done" kinda guy comes in. I like his leadership style, because it allows for a greater degree of autonomy. Anyhow, this blog was just an excuse to post some Swanologues.

Veteran's Day in Gilbert

Gilbert staff, residents and leaders honored veterans on November 10th's Annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Town Hall. The ceremony featured a presentation of colors, music by local schools, resources for veterans, and a catered lunch.  Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services Director Ted Vogt spoke about the importance of honoring veterans in his keynote address.

Hello Rivulon

Today, I was fortunate to attend the ground breaking for the new Rivulon development project in Gilbert.

According to their site: 

" Rivulon is a 250-acre mixed-use development located at the corner of Gilbert Road and the AZ 202. The premier business district will include approximately 3 million square feet of Class A office, 500,000 square feet of retail, and hotels. Rivulon will be designed with a holistic view of the site, ensuring a cohesive flow, compatibility of uses and sensitivity to the sustainability of resources."

This event and the development project itself is a major deal for the town of Gilbert. Rivulon will bring new jobs to the town and boost the town's economy. The $75 million dollar investment would not have come to fruition without the collaborative efforts between state and local government and the public sector and those involved were in attendance to celebrate the construction of this enormous project. I met real estate and business investors, business owners, state and local officials, and industry professionals. 

Since I'm a self-proclaimed introvert, I challenged myself to move outside my comfort zone and meet new people. My boss, Leah Hubbard, is the perfect example of a networking goddess. I observed her closely to pick the following networking tips: 

1.  Introduce yourself with a warm smile and firm handshake
2. "Advocate"/Promote yourself-first appearances are important
3. When introducing someone make sure to quickly list one of their accomplishments. Ex: "Have you met (name), she/he is (xxxx) and they did ( list accomplishments). 
4. Work the room. Make sure to give ample time to each conversation and then move on to the next group
5. Listen to what people have to say about themselves and tease out their qualifications and strengths. People love talking about themselves :D
6. Connect, Connect, Connect. Connect people who might have similar interest. You never know if that connection could lead to something bigger
7. Ask for business card. ( I sometimes forget this) Also, bring a few of your own.
8.  Follow up the next day to say you've enjoyed meeting them and hopefully work together soon.

Election Day!

Election Day! The superbowl for political science nerds! Everyone has a team they are rooting to win on every level of government, but sadly only one team can be victorious in our democratic system. The talking heads will be abuzz for weeks over the winners and loser, the influence the election will have on future policy, and analysis of voter turn out. The winners will tout their victory while the loser will grumble and look for brighter days saying, "We'll come back in two years, just you wait..." Either way, it's an exciting time for America when most people are influenced by politics now more than previous generations. I was reading an article on NPR stating politics is the most divisive aspect of contemporary American society. What is Really Tearing America Apart: Politics. Pretty interesting read.

Interestingly enough, my tribal government did not have their election yesterday. The Navajo Nation decided to postpone their election for Navajo Nation president since one of the candidates was disqualified from the race due to the Navajo language fluency requirement. My nation is currently split between those who feel our language is vital to tribal government and Navajo culture and those who feel in today's society business and political knowledge is more important than language. There is now a clear divide between traditionalist, who compose most of the older Navajo speaking generation, and progressives, who are the younger non-Navajo speaking generation. Many young people feel that this election turmoil sends a clear message that if you don't speak the language than you're not considered a true Navajo. When only 30% of the population speaks Navajo fluently it doesn't seem that this debate will end any time soon.

Anyway, I've been working a new project concerning Design Review Boards and creating a Gantt Chart for the Human Needs Assessment Project. Gantt Charts are a lot of fun and if you're interested in project management its a valuable tool to keep track of project timelines and deadlines. Check it out here: How to create a Gantt Chart.

I've also been busy getting the most of this internship during the last few weeks I have left. I'm a big advocate of diversifying skill sets and accumulating as much knowledge as I possibly can because you never know when it will come handy. Sure, I have no interest in zoning law or utility franchisee fees, but what can I gain from what I am doing that can help me in the future. You never really know, so learn as much as you can and take every opportunity to expand your skills. Look past the mundane, tedious tasks and projects to see what this can really teach you in other aspects of your life and career path.

Besides the two projects I'm working on, I'm also meeting with people from purchasing to event planning. Again, I want to learn as much as I can and extend my networking circle while I have the ability to do so here during this internship. It never hurts to ask and you will be surprised how many people are willing to help you when they see you're willing to learn.

It's the Final Countdown: Presentation to the Town Council

Today, I presented my  policy brief to Mayor Lewis and the Gilbert Town Council. The Town Council has been looking at E-cigarette regulation within the Town of Gilbert. I was charged to write a research brief on e-cigarette health concerns and federal, state, and local municipal regulations. I've written policy memos before, but not a policy research brief.  My supervisor, Heather Wilkey, provided the necessary guidance and encouragement from start to finish. Her insight of local municipal policy proved to be beneficial and extremely informative. I would not have been able to do this immense project without her assistance.

My document went through several revisions to change my academic vocabulary to the political language need to convey information in a clear, concise, and objective manner. I was completely unaware that my writing style was both verbose and subjective, because I'm so used to academic papers that utilize esoteric language to describe abstract thoughts and concepts. I soon realized that when writing a policy paper for busy legislators such language can be cumbersome to read. Without Heather's proof reading expertise and knowledge in political jargon, I would have submitted an academic paper instead of a policy brief. I spent countless hours working and perfecting the language and information in my paper and even took it home to work on. At one point, the brief, e-cigarette research, and anything concerning e-cigarette regulation consumed every aspect of my life.

After the brief was completed, I was to create a powerpoint highlighting various key points in the brief which would be presented to the Town Council. Like the brief, the powerpoint went through several revisions. I had to make the presentation both informative and visually stimulating. Again, Heather's expertise proved to be invaluable. She recommended highlighting key words and color coordinating text with the background's overall color scheme. Graphics, photos, and shapes played an important role in the overall design of the presentation and Heather's eye for detail helped shape the perfect balance of visual elements to reinforce the information presented.

The final presentation was to be held at the Town of Gilbert council chambers on October 28th. However, I was to present to the Executive Team (Administrative Directors) and then to the Second-in-Command team before presenting in council. The pressure was on to perform well, so practicing whenever I had a chance was key to my success. The presentation to the Executive Team went better than I thought. I was able to capture the attention of everyone in the room, which I am told was difficult thing to do. I was given several "job well done" and "good job" comments from the Town of Gilbert staff, and even  a town administrator turned to my boss and jokingly commented: "Does she want a job?"

The Second-in-Command presentation was just the same as before, but not as smoothly as the first presentation to the Executive Team. Heather once again provided valuable feedback and public speaking tips. I continued to practice my presentation while being cognizant of my "umms" and other fillers. Taking a breath instead of  saying "umm" helped and I read this wonderful article on NPR, Why Saying is Believing-The Power of Self Talk about writing down your anxieties before taking a test or giving a presentation will help you perform better. Also speaking to yourself in the third person also helps distance yourself from the situation while providing encouragement and motivation to give your best.

The day of the presentation to Town Council came and of course I was extremely nervous. I had practiced so much, I could recite every word in my sleep (and I probably did). When it was my turn to speak, I took a deep breath and said to myself, "You got this". I could feel my body start to jitter, but I refused to let incapacitate me and ruin all my hard work and effort. Then I spoke and the words just flowed out my mouth so effortlessly and I was even able to thrown in a few subtle jokes to lighten the mood. I find laughter helps cut the tension and ease anxiety and nervousness. Before I knew it, my presentation was over! Whew! The longest ten minutes of my life!

I sat down and listened to the council debate over e-cigarette regulation in the Town of Gilbert, which would only include county buildings and vehicles. My phone started to buzz with congratulatory text messages. I knew I done well and this was reinforced by appraise from the Mayor Lewis and several members of the Town Council. One of the council members said it was the best written brief he had read.

Now after the dust has settled and the ordinance has been passed, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment of my work here at the Town of Gilbert. I could not have done it without Heather's input and encouragement to succeed. Individual accomplishment is impossible without the assistance and guidance of others. I would not have been able to be the person I am and achieve so much in my life without people like heather guiding the way.

Haunted Halloween in Gilbert (WARNING: SCARY VISUALS)

On our way back from the tour of the senior center, Krista the Recreation Coordinator, gave us a tour of the Haunted House the recreation center hosted this past weekend. Check out the directions! Krista and her team of volunteers really out did themselves! Kudos!