State/Federal Government Affairs Reminder

Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023

TO:All UMMC Faculty, Staff and Students
FROM:Dr. LouAnn Woodward, Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs
SUBJECT: State/Federal Government Affairs Reminder

The Medical Center is constantly engaging with lawmakers at the state and federal level to advance our policy agenda. Our Government Relations team - Kristy Simms, executive director of external affairs and the primary connection to our federal delegation, and Anna Moak Sparks, liaison for state government affairs - helps our institutional leadership to develop this agenda and then works hard to direct and coordinate it across many constituencies.  

The 2023 session of the Mississippi Legislature is now underway and I want to make sure you are reminded that there is a process to follow prior to participating in any activities related to government or elected officials. Unless special permission is granted in advance by the Office of the Vice Chancellor, only members of our Government Relations team are authorized to conduct advocacy activities with elected/appointed government officials on behalf of UMMC. This applies to both the state and federal level.

I recognize that many of our faculty, staff, and students are members of professional associations or other groups that have interests before the Mississippi Legislature, the U.S. Congress or other state and federal agencies. And, you are encouraged to be active and engaged in advocacy for topics that matter to you as a private citizen. Remember, though, that any engagement with elected officials should not cross over into “Medical Center business.” Please make any government official or staff member with whom you have contact aware that you are representing just yourself or a third-party group and not the Medical Center. If you are taking part in such activities, I ask that you coordinate with Kristy and her office in advance of your visit or other contact.

Thank you.