Page 51 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2018

J.R. ROBINSON
J.R. Robinson, 30, specializes in governmental affairs at Mississippi Power. While attending the University of Southern Mississippi, Robinson served as both Student Body President and later Co-chairman of the Mississippi Student Body President Council. Throughout these opportunities, he realized his passion for politics.
“During that one year, I had opportunities to meet and work with some of the key policy makers in our state and in our nation, which afforded me the chance
to have an introduction to governmental affairs as it relates to working with a specific organization,” said Robinson. “Dr. Jim Borsig told me when I was about to
graduate that there are many ways to get involved in governmental affairs, you just have to find a way that fits you best. I’ve been able to do just that at Mississippi Power
and I love it.”
While he has had many mentors over the years, Robinson says one of the most integral
has been his father, Willie Robinson. Throughout his career, he has often recalled
his dad’s advice: “Trust the process. When things happen in life, don’t view them as obstacles in your path, rather see it as an opportunity that gives you the ability to grow. You’ll ultimately be a better person for it.”
TIFFANY MURDOCK
Tiffany Murdock, 37, is executive director of surgical operations at Singing River Health System. Beginning her health career as an ICU nurse, Murdock came to realize her passion was for healthcare leadership.
“I thought I wanted to go to medical school at first, but after spending some time on a medical mission trip with nurses in Guatemala and losing my mother to colon cancer at a very young age, I was able to see the impact that nurses make in the lives of their patients and community,” said Murdock. “That ultimately
sparked a passion in me to go in that direction, and to be able to lead those professionals and advocate for them in leadership roles came quickly thereafter.”
Murdock’s career and philosophy have been heavily impacted by her parents Dale and Deborah Smith. “On a personal level, my mother taught me kindness and
humility, which I strive to emulate in both my personal and professional life,” Murdock said. “My father is one of the hardest working people I know, and he always taught me that to meet or exceed your goals you had to put in the work.”
From both of her parents, Murdock learned the value of integrity, which is the basis of her healthcare career. “Your integrity is the most important thing in life that you can give away, but that can’t be taken from you, so make sure to guard it with everything you have,” she says.
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