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Press Release

Director Shawn Bray Retires from Public Service at 2015 Partner Recognition Ceremony

For Immediate Release
INTERPOL Washington

Director Shawn Bray Addresses Partners and Staff at Partner Recognition Ceremony

On October 14, 2015 INTERPOL Washington hosted its third Partner Recognition Ceremony. The ceremony honored Director Shawn Bray, as he prepares for retirement from public service at the end of this month, and the successful partnerships that have made his time as director a success. Representatives from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), INTERPOL Washington’s parent agencies, as well as partners from other federal agencies, embassy liaisons, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector were all in attendance to show their support for INTERPOL Washington and Director Bray.

Jolene Lauria, Deputy Assistant Attorney General and Controller for the Department of Justice spoke about her relationship with the USNCB and Director Bray. She praised the director’s ability to create lasting friendships while still relentlessly accomplishing the agency’s goals.

Lev Kubiak, Assistant Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) also addressed the audience, touching on the close and productive relationship between ICE and the USNCB. He also described fondly the Director’s time at ICE before coming to INTERPOL Washington and the various successes that he had during his long career there.

A surprise video from the INTERPOL General Secretariat (IPSG) was also shown – allowing INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock to express his gratitude to Director Bray for his years of service and leadership in the international community. His kind message was a reminder of the many strong and effective working relationships that Director Bray has fostered.

Deputy Director Geoffrey Shank was the Master of Ceremonies for the event. Dep. Dir. Shank took the time to highlight how much Director Bray and, by extension, the entire USNCB benefited from the quiet and steadfast support of the Director’s wonderful wife. He also expressed gratitude for the role that Director Bray has played in his professional development, serving as both an example and as a mentor.

A series of unplanned remarks were also made by members of the audience who came to celebrate the agency and to wish the Director well as he closes this chapter of his life. It was during these remarks that the diversity and range of INTERPOL Washington’s partners was truly demonstrated. Law enforcement representatives from an incredible range of U.S. agencies spoke as well as representatives from partner law enforcement agencies from absolutely every corner of the globe.

It was a fitting memorandum to a career that was characterized by lasting friendships being formed through professional excellence.

Updated October 19, 2015