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Cathy Cox
Georgia Secretary of State
November 29, 2001

With an extensive background in law, journalism, and public service, Cathy Cox took office as Georgia's Secretary of State in January of 1999. Before her election, she served three years as Assistant Secretary of State, directing the operations of the agency's five divisions. From 1993-1996 Ms. Cox served in the Georgia House of Representatives, representing Miller, Seminole, Early and Decatur countries.

As Secretary of State, Cathy Cox has pushed for changes that enhance customer service and strengthen protections for Georgia consumers. Her Corporations Division has become a leader in governmental e-commerce, offering a variety of services through the Internet and e-mail. Web-based systems also allow users to renew professional licenses and retrieve a wide array of information on electronics, Georgia history, registered charities and other important topics. Secretary Cox has put campaign disclosure reports on the Internet, allowing citizens to see for themselves who is financially supporting candidates for public office. Ms. Cox successfully fought for legislation to reform regulation of the cemetery and funeral home industries. And this year, because of her aggressive leadership Georgia became the first state in the nation to address the problem of antiquated and inaccurate voting equipment. Her bill will move Georgia to a modern uniform system of voting throughout the state by July 2004.

Ms. Cox has received numerous honors for her public service. She was named 1994 Conservation Legislator of the Year by the Georgia Wildlife Federation. Mercer School of Law awarded her the 1999 Distinguished Alumna Award and ABAC designated her its Outstanding alumnus. The Georgia Commission on Women named her the 2000 Woman of the Year. For three years now, Georgia Trend magazine has chosen her as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians.