- Hometown: Bryant, Ark.
- Role: Code revisor and administrator of the statutory review section, Arkansas Bureau of Legislative Research
- Years of legislative service: 22
“Even after many years of working at the bureau, I am still amazed at the work my colleagues do.”
Koon
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
I always enjoyed writing and editing in college and law school, so I saw working for the Legislature as an opportunity to pursue these passions in a very impactful way. The Legislature is a place where formal writing skills are still of utmost importance and attention to detail is a necessity. The Legislature sets the public policy of our state with the language it uses in the acts it passes, so being a part of the process that helps bring clarity to that language is very gratifying.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my ability to collaborate. Whether it is a bill, an act or a publication of the Arkansas Code, it takes a team of individuals to get a document properly drafted and reviewed. This teamwork involves individuals not only from my section, but from across the bureau. I have worked to ensure that our review process is collaborative and that we are all helping one another to meet our goals. Part of this work involves reminding each team member of the importance he or she plays in this process and providing positive feedback.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
Avoid silos. In the busy environment of a legislative session, it is easy to become hyperfocused on the individual work we are doing. However, if we remain too focused on ourselves or the section or division we work in, we may miss opportunities to connect with others from across our agency who could help us. One important thing I’ve learned in my time in the Legislature is that we have very talented people across our agency. We would be doing each other a disservice if we didn’t seek out ways we could share knowledge and collaborate on how to make things better.
Who or what inspires you?
The people I work with inspire me. Even after many years of working at the bureau, I am still amazed at the work my colleagues do. They consistently produce high-quality work under extreme time pressures. This excellence is inspiring, and it motivates me to continue to try to do my best.
What’s one thing you love about your state or territory?
I love our natural areas and how easy they are to get to. Even in our most urban areas, you are never far from a national forest, a river or a lake.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
I am a big history buff, so you will usually find me reading something related to history or a biography. I am currently reading “Ghost Soldiers: The Epic Account of World War II’s Greatest Rescue Mission.”
This email interview has been edited for length and clarity. Use the email icon above to suggest a legislative staffer for the “Staff Snapshots” series.