Beatty is one of three state officials in the nation receiving the National Governors' Association Award. He will be accepting the award at the 27th Annual National Governors' Association Awards Program in Indianapolis on Aug. 17.

"For more than 10 years I have relied on Bryan for his strong character," said Easley, who nominated him for the prestigious award. "He has tirelessly served our state through his career, and his leadership at the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety has helped make our state a national leader in preparations for homeland security. He is a worthy recipient of this award."

Easley named Beatty his Crime Control and Public Safety secretary in January 2001. As Secretary, Beatty oversees 10 divisions including the State Highway Patrol, Alcohol Law Enforcement, Emergency Management and the National Guard. He also chairs the Governor's Terrorism Preparedness Task Force and coordinates the state's efforts with the federal Department of Homeland Security.

Beatty began his 17-year career in government in 1981 as a special agent for the State Bureau of Investigation. He left in 1984 to attend law school and briefly worked in private practice before returning to the Department of Justice in 1989. Beatty was the first Inspector General for the state and Easley named him State Bureau of Investigation director in 1999. During his career, Beatty has also served as a member of the Governor's Crime Commission and on the Board of Directors of the Criminal Justice Information Network.

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