Beverly Anderson earns Distinguished Citizen award for dedication to Arizona

FLAGSTAFF, AZ (09/28/2012)(readMedia)-- Since her time at Northern Arizona University, Beverly Anderson, '81 BS, has committed to serving Arizona. Anderson is being honored with the 2012 Dr. Cliff Harkins Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award from the NAU Alumni Association for her exceptional work within the Arizona Justice System and her unwavering dedication to the state and its people.

After graduating from NAU with a degree in police science administration, Anderson continued her education at the University of Arizona Law School, where she graduated in 1985. In 1991 Anderson was assigned to the Civil Division in Pima County, representing several departments in civil lawsuits. Among her many awards, Anderson was named Litigator of the Year in 2000 by Arizona Attorney General Janet Napolitano.

Since 2002, she has served as assistant U.S. Attorney in the District of Arizona.

She is the only attorney in Tucson assigned to the National Security Section and sits on the Joint Terrorism Task Force in southern Arizona.

"Mr. Harkins was a long time educator who devoted his career to public service and I'm honored to receive the award named after him," Anderson said. "Being a government lawyer and serving the community in this capacity is both an honor and a tremendous responsibility. To be placed in such a position of trust and responsibility is a privilege I don't take lightly."

Her award is one of four that will be presented at NAU's homecoming football game Oct. 20. For information about the award, visit nau.edu/alumni/awards.