2015 alumni, Johnathan Saunders, provides a career update.
My name is Johnathan Saunders and I graduated from Missouri State University with a master of Public Administration degree with an emphasis in Public Policy, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Conflict and Dispute Resolution. My interests have always been geared toward the public welfare in some fashion, but truly, I was not certain what path that would take. When I moved to Springfield for my program, I fell in love with Springfield and the community. As a transplant to Springfield, and coming from a small town, the community provided more than I first realized. Springfield is a collaborative city and maintains relationships with private enterprise, non-profits, and faith-based organizations, leveraging those connections for the betterment of all.
As part of my program I had the opportunity to do an internship in the City Manager’s office. It was a privilege to see behind the veil and get a better handle on the operations of the city. There is truly a broad set of hard working, unsung heroes, working everyday to make sure that citizens don’t experience undue hardships. After a few years working for the Springfield Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau, I knew it was time to get back to my passion – responsible government. When an opening in the City Clerk’s office came about, I jumped at the opportunity to learn more about what the role was, and how my skills could be best utilized. Ultimately my time at Missouri State paid off.
The City Clerk’s office maintains and protects vital and legal documents for the city. In addition, they assist City Council with preparing bills, connecting constituents to policy makers, prepare mayoral proclamations, oversee twenty-seven boards and commissions, and process all city contracts ranging from small to multi-million dollar economic projects. This is all done, despite being the smallest staffed department in the city, with seven total staff members. Broadly speaking, my role as Assistant City Clerk is to manage the day-to-day operations of the department. I challenge myself to be a resource to staff and help develop their professional skills as well. I encourage them to join professional organizations, develop connections, and increase their leadership capabilities.
My role is privy to sensitive information, policy discussions, political discourse, and a lot of planning. It truly is a fine marriage between my degree and skills. I was fortunate to acquire the position without having prior government experience. I’m without a doubt that my work history, combined with my time a Missouri State, degrees, connections, and internship, really helped me secure a seat at the table. I would encourage any of you who are interested to look into working for local government. It touches our daily lives in ways you may not think about and is a truly rewarding career. With many different departments, the City is always looking for a broad base of talented young professionals to hire.