by Brian Weberg
This week, for the first time in 36 years, the North Carolina Legislature is operating without Terry Sullivan in its employment. Another legislative lion has retired. Terry worked at the research division all those years and served as its director for most of them. He guided his nonpartisan agency though some pretty tough political times, always keeping a low personal profile while fostering confidence in his staff from Democrats and Republicans alike. Being the quiet and deferential man that he is, Terry probably does not invite any of the attention that his retirement has garnered. I expect, however, that being named Tar Heel of the Week by The News & Observer probably put a smile on his face.
At 62, Terry has spent half his life at the Legislature. His is a kind of public service that seems more and more rare these days. Terry's departure, of course, is representative of the exodus of veteran staff directors taking place in legislatures across the country. We have speculated on this trend and what it means for agencies like Terry's research group. Who will follow in his example? Will we see people join this kind of nonpartisan public service who are willing to work behind the scenes for so many years, confident enough in their contribution that they can live without their 15 minutes of fame?
But enough with the search for deeper meaning in all of this. Today while Terry Sullivan dreams of upcoming adventures in other parts of the world, we simply want to thank him for his dedication, contribution, loyalty and kindness in service to his state, his legislature and to the cause of representative democracy. Safe travels, Terry....
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