by Doug Forsyth, Deputy Director

In previous editions of NSSL Briefings, we have recognized the scientific divisions of NSSL: the Mesoscale Research and Applications Division and the Stormscale Research and Applications Division. The accomplishments of these two divisions over the last several years has been outstanding, but another part of our team shares in these outstanding achievements, and that is the staff assigned to the Director's Office. With a total staff of 19, the Director's Office includes the Central Support Services (CSS) group (top photo) and the Administrative group (middle photo) along with one position assigned to the Joint Operational Support Services Division of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research. Those in the Director's Office management are in the bottom photo.

The CSS staff carries out numerous tasks that include computer hardware and software support and maintenance, network support, data management, graphics support, library support, equipment maintenance and preventive maintenance, World Wide Web support, outreach, public relations, and property management.

The Administrative staff also has numerous functions in support of NSSL that include procurement, budget tracking and analyses, invoice and billing, payroll transmission, facility maintenance, safety, security, personnel actions, record keeping, supplies and secretarial support. Our Joint Operational Support Services position supports and facilitates our data management efforts and field programs.

People are our most important resource. We have excellent people providing outstanding support for our research and application programs. As we reflect on the past and look toward the future, let us remember the excellent work that has been accomplished as a result of our outstanding teamwork. Everyone contributes to our successes. Let us continue to work together, not only internally, but externally, to improve the quality of our nation's severe weather forecasts and warnings.