For thirty years the talented M. Michael “Mike” Tallent, has served the University of Tennessee’s Municipal Technical Advisory Service (MTAS), having held titles of Municipal Management Consultant, Senior Management Consultant, Assistant Director and Executive Director. As of March 1, 2010, Mike has accepted a promotion as Assistant Vice President for the University’s Institute for Public Service. He has provided invaluable service in confronting the challenge of providing prompt, insightful information and assistance to Tennessee’s cities in order that they may build stronger, more vibrant communities and has made continual efforts to foster youth involvement in the field of city management.