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7th TVARS Board Member

The term of Allen Stokes, a TVA retiree and the current 7th Board member, ends October 31, 2015.  The 7th member is appointed by the other six per the retirement system rules.  Allen has served as 7th member for four years.  Allen has submitted his name for consideration for another term.  Last I heard, his is the only name that has been submitted.  If any other names are submitted, I will keep an open mind and be happy to participate with the other five board members when we conduct the interview process.

At this time though, in response to many of your questions, I want to let you know that I have been impressed with Allen’s performance and leadership as 7th member and Chairman of the TVARS Board.  Allen’s positions are always well thought out.  He takes his responsibility to TVA retirees and employees very seriously.  If Allen is reappointed as the 7th Board member, I believe the TVARS Board would be in a very good position to follow through on some matters of great importance to TVA retirees and employees.  I will give just two examples:

  • Allen has played a very active role in moving the Board forward in dealing with the pending lawsuit.  He has brought many issues to light through methodical questioning and active participation in discussions. Allen’s knowledge and experience, along with his continued questioning and participation in discussions, would be very helpful as the TVARS Board continues to deal with the litigation beyond October 31.  The judge has yet to rule on the motions before her and set a date for the actual trial to begin.
  • Allen has been very effective in enhancing the independence of TVARS.   Due in large part to Allen’s work, the TVARS Board is about to enter into a loaned employee agreement with TVA.  This agreement stipulates that the TVARS Board is responsible for the hiring and compensation of TVARS employees.  At the same time, this agreement provides stability for TVARS employees by allowing them to remain TVA employees.  TVARS will also have greater autonomy in negotiating for services and office space from TVA.  This agreement should bring TVARS governance into conformity with best practices.  Allen’s leadership, his knowledge of organizational structures, and his knowledge of information technology systems, would be very helpful to the TVARS Board as we implement and fine tune this new governance structure.

Thank you for your continuing support of the TVARS Board.

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