The Daily Egyptian is published by the students of SIU at Carbondale. Except during vacations and exam weeks, The Daily Egyptian is published Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and TWThF during the summer semester."

City employee to cross over to University system

After working with the City of Carbondale for more than seven years, Deborah Nelson will begin her new position as assistant general counsel for SIUC Thursday.

Nelson, who is leaving her position as City Attorney, obtained her bachelor's degree from SIUC in 1991 and graduated from the SIU Law School three years later.

Even though Nelson said leaving the city is very difficult, she said she is looking forward to the great opportunity and new challenges the University will bring.

"To me, it's a natural progression. It's the same skills but applied in a different manner," Nelson said. "The city and the University have always worked together, and now, I'll be able to look at it from the University system."

City Manager Jeff Doherty said Nelson's new job will definitely be a loss for the city, but understands it is a good opportunity.

Nelson was one of 54 applicants for the job at SIUC, but General Counsel Jerry Blakemore said Nelson was the only choice for the position because of her extensive background and experience.

"Here's a person who not only has legal experience, but relevant experience," Blakemore said.

He also said Nelson's 10-year experience as a licensed attorney will be well needed in such situations as labor contracts negotiations, the Ethics Act and other legal proceedings.

With the retirement of Lee Ellen Starkweather, a 12-year veteran of the General Counsel office, Blakemore believes Nelson will bring the same type of integrity to the job that Starkweather did.

"Ms. Nelson is a model of what a good lawyer should be," Blakemore said. "It was an easy decision."

Even though Nelson begins her duties as assistant general counsel Thursday, Blakemore said the SIU Board of Trustees would have to approve the hire at its Thursday meeting.

Doherty, who referred to Nelson as invaluable, said the city is currently in the process of looking for a permanent replacement, but will have Assistant City Attorney Casey Parker serve as interim City Attorney until the position is filled.

 

 

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