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Anna Findley, Greenville victim service officer and public safety advocate for the District Attorney’s office serving Lowndes, Butler and Crenshaw counties, has been honored by consideration as an associate board member for the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles. 

Only five nominees were selected from across the state and one, Gabrelle Simmons of Deatsville, was appointed by Governor Kay Ivey for a six year term. And while not selected this go round, Findley said the experience of being nominated was incredible and an honor. 

“Once I was notified about being selected to interview, I was absolutely speechless and overwhelmed with gratitude,” Findley said. “I put my hands on my knees and buckled over in tears and cried out to God, ‘Thank you God for the opportunity you have provided me with.’ He is why I’m in the position I’m in today. He deserves all the glory. The experience of interviewing for a professional position in the Alabama State Capitol was incredible and such an honor to be recognized.”

Findley said that for the past decade she has desired to be part of change in Alabama, especially when it comes to public safety, and values the mission of the State in keeping citizens protected while leading them towards a more prosperous future.

“This nomination has lit another fire in me to strive to be better than I was yesterday,” Findley said. “Years ago, I promised myself I would do my best to create change in Alabama public safety. I’m a small town girl with such large dreams and I won’t stop now. I am passionate about Alabama and what it has to offer. Until the Lord opens a new door, I will continue to be the best I can be for our state and I will continue to provide a level of comfort for our local victims who deserve to be heard too.”

Findley said she is grateful to everyone who believed in her, including Charlotte Tesmer, District Attorney for the  Second Judicial Circuit, and Chris Sells, the State Representative for District 90.

“I have Charlotte Tesmer to thank individually,” Findley said. “She has always been supportive of me. She is the very reason why I work with victims today and I’m so thankful for her guidance and patience. Chris Sells is another person I would have to thank. I feel like he has mentored me and I am so appreciative of the knowledge I’ve received from him.”

Sells said Findley would have been perfect for the board member position of pardon and paroles.

“I was proud to support Anna Findley because I know her heart is in the right place,” Sells said. “She has life and work experiences that would have made her perfect for the board position. She works hard, and it doesn’t go unnoticed.” 

Findley said she has learned a lot about herself and God’s timing through this process.

“All ambitions are worth seeking and there’s no dream too far to reach,” Findley said. “What I’m learning through this journey is that it only comes in God’s timing. I’ve learned a lot about who I am during the process and I’m proud of what I have accomplished thus far. This experience was one I’ll never forget and I’m beyond blessed to have been recognized and nominated. I pray I will continue to be considered in the future.”