Political science alum reflects on time spent at WSU

David Ready, CLAS '06, Ph.D., feels "ready" to take on the world, thanks to his education at Wayne State University. Ready, who knew from a young age that the administrative aspects of government excited him, was already a qualified attorney and the city administrator of Flint prior to coming to Wayne State. During a conference about urban poverty programs, he was convinced by the host - then-WSU President David Adamany - that earning his Ph.D. in political science at Wayne State would be a beneficial career move. Ready, currently the city manager of Palm Springs, CA, was drawn to Wayne State by its mission and said the university's unique character made campus life enjoyable. "This is a major university with significant research and educational opportunities in a truly urban setting."

Wayne State influenced the way that Ready thinks about government and how he implements policies. His doctoral dissertation, "The Critical Role of City and County Managers in Quality Management Implementation" introduced his Social Quantum Field Theory, demonstrating how quality management practices can be applied to the complexities of urban government in a meaningful and lasting way. His Wayne State education and the support of faculty mentor Richard Elling helped Ready hone his critical thinking and writing abilities so he could apply classroom theories to real-world situations.

As a dedicated alumnus, Ready values his relationship with campus. "It's a great way to connect with your roots. You'll be able to feel the energy and it will be exciting." When asked to give advice to current students, Ready imparted this wisdom: "Absorb it all and enjoy it. You may not realize it at the time, but Wayne State is enriching your professional abilities with its energy and unique setting. Take advantage of all the opportunities that Wayne State gives you."

By Anne Okonowski, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Alumni Development Writer