(This article originally appeared in the Director's Column of the OHS's January 2016 issue of Mistletoe Leaves)

I often write about the power of partnerships, usually in the context of other organizations that share our mission for collecting, preserving, and sharing Oklahoma history.

The power of partnerships also applies to the operational side of what we do at the Oklahoma Historical Society. I have been fortunate to work with many gifted partners over the years, including board members, colleagues on the staff, and volunteers.

One partnership that is crucial to the efficient operation of the organization is the working relationship between the executive director and the deputy director.

On a daily basis there are countless problems to be solved, details to be checked, and processes to push down the track. The deputy director sifts through those details, recommends action, and gives the executive director time to focus on goals, friend-making, communication, and outreach. When talking about the effectiveness of the deputy director, I often use the metaphor of keeping the wheels on a car speeding around a track.

That critical role has been ably filled for the past eight years by my deputy director Tim Zwink. He is the model of consistency, thoroughness, and patience. Much of the credit all of us get at the OHS is due to the efficiency and personal leadership of Tim.

It is with a mixture of sadness and gratitude that I am announcing his retirement at the end of January.

Tim has been a true partner in all I do. We meet first thing every morning before 8:00, punctuated by our ritualized formal address of "Hello, Dr. Zwink," followed by "Hello, Dr. Blackburn." Throughout the day, both in person and on the telephone if I am out around the state, he keeps lists of the issues we need to discuss. We pull others into the conversation when needed, walk through various scenarios, and make decisions about the next steps to be taken. It is a perfect example of collaboration and a blending of skill sets.

Tim will not sever his association with the OHS. He has offered to come in when needed, especially when a new deputy director steps into his office, and he will continue to participate in historical projects and programs. Still, it will not be the same when he is gone.

Yes, I often write about the power of partnerships, but my partnership with Tim has been special. Here is a tip of my hat to a man who has been a dedicated leader, a trusted advisor, and a good friend.





Bob Blackburn, Executive Director

The Oklahoma History Center is honored to present Bryan Austin as the 4th President of the United States, James Madison. This performance will take place on Thursday, February 4, at 7 p.m. There is no charge for this event, but seating is limited so an early arrival is recommended. This event is made possible by a grant from the Oklahoma Humanities Council and Sonic, America's Drive-In.