DON MAGNER

City Manager of Richardson

Tell us about your early years. Where did you grow up and what was your early family life like? Where did you attend college? When did you know that you wanted to work in city government?

I was born and raised in New Orleans. I developed an interest in government and politics in high school, largely because of the unique nature of both in Louisiana. I developed a strong belief that local government should be managed by professionals who, above all else, are committed to integrity and service. I decided I wanted to be around others who shared that same belief, so I moved to Texas as soon as I could. I finished my Bachelor’s degree at UT Dallas and earned my Master’s from UT Arlington.

What town or city did you serve in first and in what capacity?

Richardson is the only community in which I have served. I have been blessed with many roles and responsibilities throughout the years and have had an opportunity to work directly with every department in the City. My journey to City Manager has been somewhat unconventional, but I would not change one step along the way.

How many years total have you served in city government? What do you love best about the profession? Is there a particular moment that stands out in your mind where you truly felt you were making a positive difference? If so, please share the story with us.

I just celebrated my 27th anniversary with the City. I enjoy many aspects of serving, but none more than working directly with residents and other stakeholders to resolve issues that are important to them. The opportunity to assist them when they need it the most is a rewarding experience that you want to repeat again and again. I also love the people I work with. The men and women who serve our community truly care about the job they do and the people they serve. Whether it is keeping us safe, providing core services like water or trash collection, or maintaining our beautiful parks and trails, our employees work around the clock and in difficult conditions every day with little fanfare to provide exceptional programs and services.

Name three adjectives which best describe you.

Grateful, adaptable, and direct.

Did you have a mentor growing up who inspired you? If so, please tell us about him or her.

My father was an inspiration to me. He had very little education but was industrious, savvy, and had a strong desire to provide for his family, which he did successfully. He always stressed the importance of education and worked multiple jobs so that my brother and I could attend good schools. He demonstrated that your early circumstances in life do not have to dictate your future.

We’d love to know the Magners…can you tell us about your family?

Dionne and I have two sons, Davis and Aidan. Dionne is a professor of nursing at Baylor University. She’s an awesome partner to me and an amazing professional who is helping develop the next generation of nurses, which is very important work. Davis and Aidan are both smart, funny, hard-working young men. Dionne and I are proud of their journey so far and excited to see them reach their full potential. Davis currently lives and works in Dallas while Aidan is a sophomore at UT.

When you aren’t working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy most? How do you spend your free time when you aren’t working?

I really enjoy exercising. I also enjoy relaxing in our pool or on a beach, anywhere. I’m also an aspiring drummer (emphasis on aspiring!).

Do you live by a certain mantra? If so, will you share it with us?

Do good work every day! My predecessors as City Manager, Bill Keffler and Dan Johnson, instilled this simple yet important concept in me throughout the years. I truly believe that if you come to work every single day and focus on providing exceptional customer service, delivering quality core services and programs, and making everyone you encounter feel appreciated and valued, the City and community will continue to thrive.

What do you hope people will say about you at your funeral (hopefully YEARS AWAY!)?

I, too, hope it is years away! When the time comes, I hope they say I was a good dad and husband, committed leader and mentor, and that I cared about the people I served with throughout the years.

The Magners on Vacation

Don and Dionne at an LSU game