Alexandria, VA – Last night the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) International honored the recipients of its prestigious 2014 Public Safety Leadership in Policy Awards, during APCO’s Annual Public Safety Communications Leadership Dinner in Washington, DC.

Before an audience consisting of representatives from public safety communications, government agencies and other industry stakeholders, APCO commemorated leaders in public safety communications who are outstanding advocates for the community.

The award winners are:

Leadership in Advocacy Award
Joseph Heaps
Policy Advisor, Office of Science and Technology
National Institute of Justice, Office of Justice Programs
U.S. Department of Justice

Joseph Heaps served eight years in the Navy, and has worked in various roles at the Federal Communications Commission, Department of Commerce, and Department of Defense. In his current position, he has worked to promote the development of advanced technologies for the law enforcement and public safety communities

Leadership in Regulatory Service Award
Timothy May
E911/NG911 Projects Manager
Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau
Federal Communications Commission

Since 2006, Timothy May has been a Policy Analyst in the Policy & Licensing Division of the FCC’s Public Safety & Homeland Security Bureau, where he is a valuable contributor to the FCC’s ongoing work on 9-1-1and Next Generation 9-1-1 issues, as well as other important public safety matters.

Leadership in Legislative Service Award
Senator Amy Klobuchar
U.S. Senate

As a co-chair of the NextGen 9-1-1 Caucus and a member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Senator Klobuchar is a well-recognized leader in advancing public safety communications, including 9-1-1 services.  Senator Klobuchar was instrumental in the passage of the Next Generation 9-1-1 Advancement Act of 2012.

Leadership in Advancing Communications Policy Award
Sam Ginn

Chairman, First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet)

In August 2012, Sam Ginn was appointed by the Secretary of Commerce to his present position as the inaugural chairman of the Board of Directors for the First Responder Network Authority.  He is a graduate of Auburn University’s College of Engineering, which was named for him in recognition of his achievements.

“We were very pleased to host and award such a deserving group of individuals who have each truly made an impact on the advancement of public safety communications,” said APCO President Gigi Smith. “We are grateful for their service, and hope that our recognition, on behalf of our entire association, helps to highlight their dedication and support of our mission and their positive impact on citizens and first responders alike.”

For information about the Awards Dinner, visit leadersdinner.apcointl.org.  A portion of the proceeds from this event goes to the continued support of the Public Safety Foundation of America, which focuses on improving public safety services to our communities.