ARLINGTON, VA – Since its inception in 1991, The Century Council has been steadfast in its mission to fight drunk driving and underage drinking. While much progress has been made by attacking these problems head on, it is also important to examine these issues in a larger cultural context. The Century Council is proud to be celebrating its 20th Anniversary and recognizes that the past 20 years could not have been a success without the support of remarkable individuals who encourage health, wellness, and a commitment to eliminating drunk driving and underage drinking.

As part of the 20th Anniversary celebration, The Century Council will honor 20 People to Watch. These twenty people have distinguished themselves through their leadership, ideas and commitment to the health and safety of our nation and the idea of a brighter future for America’s young people. Young or old, established in their chosen professions, or just starting out, these twenty people are ones we are excited to follow in the future.

Mary Begley, currently the principal at Arlington Science Focus School is one of the Council’s distinguished 20 People to Watch. In July 1995, she began work on a committee to establish a new school in Arlington. Through the research and work of the committee, Arlington Science Focus became a reality for students in September of that year. Begley served as a reading teacher and assistant principal in Alexandria and then as a reading specialist in Arlington prior to becoming the principal at ASFS in 1997. Through Begley’s leadership, ASFS was a finalist for the Intel Schools of Distinction Award last year and earned the Governor’s Award for Educational Excellence for the past three years.

“The biggest feature for me as a leader is to always put myself in the place of the teacher and say ‘how would this decision impact me as a teacher?’ and ‘how would it impact my children?’ and making sure that our children receive the best, most appropriate education they possibly can,” said Begley.

“While several leaders come to mind, Mary Begley is someone who has shown time and time again how much she cares for the children at her school,” said Ralph Blackman, President and CEO of The Century Council. “It is through the dedication and support of people like Mary that truly enables The Century Council to carry out its mission.”

The Century Council is proud to celebrate the innovative contributions it has made over 20 years and can attribute our success to the support, encouragement and commitment of people like Mary Begley. The Century Council looks forward to continued progress in the fight against drunk driving, underage drinking and a safer and healthier America. Individuals who are making a difference will help all Americans move towards this goal.

About The Century Council
The Century Council is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to fighting drunk driving and underage drinking and is funded by the following distillers: Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.; Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc.; Brown-Forman; Constellation Brands, Inc.; DIAGEO; Hood River Distillers, Inc.; Pernod Ricard USA; and Sidney Frank Importing Co., Inc. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia and chaired by Hon. Susan Molinari, The Century Council is a leader in the fight to eliminate drunk driving and underage drinking and promotes responsible decision making regarding beverage alcohol. The Century Council develops and implements innovative programs and public awareness campaigns and promotes action through strategic partnerships. Established in 1991, The Century Council’s initiatives are highlighted on its website at www.centurycouncil.org.