Patterson Marks 20 Years as TSLA Administrative Executive

The record-setting final episode of M.A.S.H. was still two years in the future and Ronald Reagan had just become the 40th president when Jean Patterson took hold of the administrative duties of the Texas Surplus Lines Association. That was 1981. This spring the executive committee of the association hosted a dinner marking her 20 years of dedication and service to the TSLA.

Rosemarie Marshall, president; Gil Hine, vice president; Paula Burnes, secretary; and Bill Stinson, immediate past president, traveled to Austin where they helped Patterson mark her 20 years. “I was honored that they took the time to do that for me and cannot thank them enough for their kindness,” said Patterson in a personal note in the TSLA newsletter. Patterson also received a gift certificate.

“The success of the TSLA is due to one person…Jean Patterson,” said Marshall. She added it would be impossible to measure the dedication, commitment and hard work that has marked Patterson’s career with the TSLA.

Patterson said, “it has been a sincere pleasure to work for the association for the past 20 years. I have met so many great people and have had so many wonderful opportunities. I have been places I would have never seen if it weren’t for TSLA. I have learned so much from all the officers and directors who have cycled through during the 20 years.” She added, “several of them are still my mentors and people I look up to today.”

Patterson began with the TSLA as a part-time administrative aide. “Fred Steves, Myron F. Steves & Co., had the unfortunate luck of being the president with the new employee. The job grew into full time in 1983, and I became the executive administrator. Eventually, I was given the title of executive director. While I do employ occasional part-time help, it is still for the most part a one person office,” said Patterson.

“I wouldn’t trade the past 20 years for anything. I love what I do and I look forward to coming to work every day.” Speaking to her members, Patterson said, “I enjoy working for all of you and seeing you at the TSLA conventions, or speaking with you on the phone when you have a question or need assistance with a problem.

“I look forward to the next 20 years and my continuing service to the association. Thanks for all the support you have shown me.”