Dr. Patton Named to Tennessee Ethics Commission

Dr. Robert Patton, retired professor in the East Tennessee State University College of Public Health, has been named by Governor Haslam to the Tennessee Ethics Commission. 

The Tennessee Ethic Commission was created in an effort to sustain the public's confidence in government by increasing the integrity and transparency of state and local government through the regulation of lobbying activities, financial disclosure requirements and ethical conduct. The Commission is comprised of six members, appointed by the Governor, the Speaker of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. 

Duties will include addressing ethical standards of conduct by government officials; contribution limits and disclosure in political campaigns; the open operation of government; and determining penalties for violations of ethical standards. 

“I’m honored to be named to the Commission,” stated Dr. Patton.  “I’m pleased the Governor appointed me.”

In addition to serving as a faculty member and Chair of the Department of Health Education, Robert D. "Bob" Patton has served his community as a county commissioner, House Sergeant-at-Arms administrative assistant to the Secretary of State of Tennessee; and for ten years in the Tennessee House of Representatives.

Dr. Patton has edited four text books in addition to authoring Tennessee Political Fireworks, a book on political stories, and the recently completed History of the College of Public Health at East Tennessee State University.  He currently presents the Dr. Robert D. Patton Health Policy Internship Scholarship to rising juniors in the bachelor of public health program and first year master in public health students from the state of Tennessee.