Agency News and Notes

Mary L. Grady, managing editor of Research Activities, retires after 31 years of government service

In 1989, Mary Grady joined the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality as a member of the publishing team. She became managing editor of Research Activities in 1995. Now, 10 years, 120 issues, and 20,000 subscribers later, we say "goodbye."

Mary's career in the government began in 1974 at the Naval Medical Research Institute. In 1979, she became an editor at the U.S. Government Printing Office, but then returned to the Naval Medical Research Institute to head its publishing efforts in 1983. From 1987 to 1989, she served as the Director's speech writer at the Office for Substance Abuse and Prevention. Mary came to interview as an editor at AHRQ in 1989. It was our great fortune that she accepted the position and played an integral part in helping the Agency accomplish its goals.

Over the years, Mary shepherded Research Activities through changes in the focus of health services research, remembering that her readers needed information that was clear, succinct, and relevant. She always met her deadlines and built a solid, loyal subscriber base, and she accomplished this even though Research Activities was not her only duty. She also had numerous other publications to write and edit such as fact sheets, program briefs, consumer materials, and the Agency's annual report. Each one, whether large or small, was written and edited concisely with the same professional care.

Instead of working late and running down the halls of AHRQ with papers in hand to meet yet another deadline, Mary will spend her days sleeping late and strolling on the beach. We are honored that you graced us with your presence, Mary, and will miss you.

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