As Thomas Adkins gears up for his first day as the new deputy city manager for Glendale, he’s looking back at how far he’s come since his days as a library clerk at 16 years old learning the value of public service. Looking forward now toward the future, Adkins said he is excited to help “lead on (his) feet” to continued prosperity.

“Glendale is a great community, I’m super excited,” he said. “The best city leaders have a tendency to lead on their feet — to go to the departments and agencies, be present, know employees’ names.

“They develop a culture that recognizes humanity in each of us and supports it, and that’s really important to me.”

Adkins was appointed on Aug. 11; his first day will be Aug. 25. He’s taking over for Brent Stoddard, who became deputy city manager in 2019.

Adkins said one of his goals is to get to know the members of Glendale City Council, and familiarize himself with each of their priorities and concerns — get his “sea legs.” He said in the long term he wants to contribute to the work and processes that have led to the significant growth the city has experienced over the years.

While Adkins doesn’t live in Glendale, he has lived in the Northwest Valley for 24 years. His wife has worked in Glendale and his children were born in Glendale as well. The soon-to-be deputy city manager added that he loves the culture and events of the city, noting his experience supporting Luke Air Force Base as deeply memorable.

Prior to his appointment, Adkins served as vice president for the Arizona Board of Regents. His responsibilities included advocating for the board’s higher education initiatives, managing community outreach and tending to crisis communication needs and press inquiry.

Adkins said that he feels his new role bears resemblance to his old one, but the opportunity to work more closely with the people in the community is a welcome change of pace.

“My experience working in local government is near and dear to my heart because of the proximity to the people we serve,” Adkins said. “It has been humbling to serve alongside some of the great leaders of our state and community.”

Adkins gained experience in local government working in legislative research staff after college, supporting committees that worked on issues pertaining to Titles IV and XI in Arizona, where he said he was able to connect with many local leaders. He started working for the city of Glendale shortly after Mayor Jerry P. Weiers was elected in 2012. He went on to work for the city of Peoria for eight years as director of intergovernmental affairs.

Over 20 years of experience in local government yielded a passion for public service, Adkins said. Before working a formal job, he volunteered with charitable organizations including Meals on Wheels.

For Adkins, contributing to society and supporting his fellow community members is his calling. He said that being a public servant is a righteous and fulfilling cause.

“All of us are on this earth for a limited amount of time,” he said. “I feel quite strongly that one of the most important things we can do is help each other on this journey — however long we have and wherever we may be.

“Public service to me is an opportunity to take that philosophy and make a career out of it.”