Biography
Lin Appling - Leader, Author & Speaker

photo by Kim Wade

Lin Appling was born and raised in Roberta, Georgia to a family of 14. As a young man, inspired by Martin Luther King, Jr., Appling recognized his dream.

To pursue it, he joined the military, going on to serve in some of the most prestigious and elite units in the Army. After earning the U.S. Army Legion of Merit for meritorious service and the Bronze Star Medal for service in Vietnam, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. While in the Army, he received his Bachelor of Arts in Business and Social Science from Coker College, Hartsville, South Carolina and a Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Health Administration from Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas.

Appling has since served Missouri State Government in several administrative positions. In January 1993, he was appointed by Governor Mel Carnahan to serve as his Deputy Chief of Staff for Constituent Services. In August 1993, he accepted the position of Director of Facilities Management with the Office of Administration and in March 1995, he was appointed by Secretary of State Bekki Cook as Executive Deputy Secretary of State. In December 1999, he returned to the Office of Administration as Special Assistant to the Commissioner and later returned as the Director of Facilities Management. On April 6, 2004, he was appointed by Governor Bob Holden as one of five Commissioners to the Public Service Commission. Appling strongly believes in the mission of the Public Service Commission - a job he takes seriously and works hard to achieve a balanced outcome for the consumers as well as the utilities.

He has been affiliated with the Capital City Boys & Girls Club since its inception in the early 90’s. At present, he is a member of the Board of Directors for the Club. He has just released his first book titled “Be Somebody - A Guide to Achieving Personal Success”. In its 168 pages, Appling outlines a plan of action for anyone wanting to live up to his or her potential. Appling truly feels that it is his mission to build passion within young people, adults, the community and this country.

Appling’s lifelong dream has always been to help others reach their goals and his achievements are an example of what you can do if you know what you want, work hard, believe in yourself and don’t quit!