SEANC Lobbyist Suzanne Beasley understands what it takes to face adversity head on and come out for the better on the other side.

Before her career at SEANC, Beasley was an account specialist with a major investment firm, moving money around for high profile clients. When the twin towers were destroyed in the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, the investment industry found itself in uncertain territory and Beasley found herself without a job. Fortunately, as doors close, windows open, and Beasley discovered that SEANC needed assistance in its insurance department, and her proven track record landed her a job.

Beasley spent only three shorts months at SEANC before other departments started to notice her hard work. At the time, Legislative Affairs Director Ardis Watkins was SEANC’s only full-time lobbyist fighting at the General Assembly to further the rights of 55,000 state employees. Seeing Beasley was prepared for the next step in her SEANC career, Watkins offered her a new position in the legislative affairs department. Beasley acted as Watkins’ assistant for several months, attending committee meetings to take notes and promote public services at the General Assembly.

Beasley’s ambitions did not stop at assistant lobbyist. While working full time, Beasley returned to school and pursued an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Sciences at Kaplan University. Acquiring that education permitted Beasley to continue her climb in the legislative affairs department, becoming a lobbyist in her own right for state employees across North Carolina.

While lobbyists often concentrate on one particular set of issues, Beasley is not confined to a specific area in public services. “I am diverse in my role as a lobbyist,” says Beasley, “I guess you could say I’m a floater.” Flexibility in tackling a variety of issues is one of her greatest strengths, allowing her rise to whatever challenge the day may bring. “This week alone, I’ve advocated reducing state health plan costs by ending hospital surgery monopolies, stopping cuts to highway patrol jobs and protecting the privacy of state personnel files.”

When asked to reflect on her favorite accomplishments as a SEANC lobbyist, her work to prevent privatizing prison maintenance immediately comes to mind. “It was amazing to see our members become so engaged in the effort,” says Beasley. Keeping those jobs public was a big win for SEANC and Beasley recognizes the critical role member support plays in SEANC successes.

Even while tirelessly fighting for employee rights and benefits, Beasley still finds time to read, listen to music, swim and indulge in her newest passion: riding Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Contact Suzanne Beasley at sbeasley@seanc.org or connect with her on Twitter at@SuzyBelle211.