In this episode of the SEANC View podcast, host Jonathan Owens is joined by Suzanne Beasley, Ardis Watkins, and Sam Cline to discuss Governor Josh Stein's recent State of the State address. State employees and retirees were largely absent from the address, despite the ongoing crisis of high vacancy rates within state agencies and the resultant pressure on remaining employees.

The team also touches on the legislature's oversight of public service employees, retention issues, and the economic impact on the state workforce. They highlight the importance of recognizing public employees' contributions, especially those who continue to work under challenging conditions.

President Kirk Montgomery and Immediate Past President Martha Fowler also join for a conversation on celebrating black leaders and institutions in state government for Black History Month, as well as their time in SEANC leadership.

We close with a discussion of the 5-year anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 lockdown.