Harry Reid: “today I rise to honor a woman who has dedicated herself to serving the people of Nevada and who has left a lasting…”

“today I rise to honor a woman who has dedicated herself to serving the people of Nevada and who has left a lasting impact through her work in government. Ms. Sandy Lee Avants was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ. Following graduation from Arizona State University, she moved to Las Vegas. As a testament to Sandy's character, within the first month of her residence in Las Vegas, she immediately became involved in the local community through service clubs. Sandy has had success both in her professional life and in public service. Following a prosperous private business enterprise, she began her career in Nevada's government when Senator Richard Bryan was serving as Governor. Governor Bryan then appointed Sandy to be chairman of the State of Nevada's Commission on Ethics in 1983 and in 1986 appointed her as the administrator of the Real Estate Division. In 1987, Sandy became the first woman to head a State law enforcement agency when she became the administrator of the Taxicab Authority. Sandy's accomplishments came at a time when Nevada needed them the most. Her most recent appointment was to the Transportation Service Authority, TSA, in Nevada, where she served as the deputy commissioner, commissioner, and chairwoman. At TSA, she administered and enforced Nevada's law related to passenger transportation, household goods movement, and car towing companies. Additionally, she ensured that consumers utilizing these services were protected.…”