Press Release

MICHAEL GARRITY NAMED HEAD OF EXAMINATION PROGRAM IN SEC's BOSTON REGIONAL OFFICE

Washington, D.C., Dec. 19, 2011 – The Securities and Exchange Commission today announced the appointment of Michael E. Garrity to lead the examination program in its Boston Regional Office.

Mr. Garrity, who immediately begins in his new position as Associate Regional Director for Examinations, will direct a staff of 60 accountants, examiners, attorneys and support staff responsible for the examination of broker-dealers, investment companies, investment advisers, and transfer agents in the six New England states.

Mr. Garrity joined the SEC's Boston office as an examiner in 2001 and has served as an Assistant Regional Director for the past five years. Mr. Garrity received the SEC Chairman's Examination Award for Excellence in 2005.

"Mike brings a true passion to the job along with a unique blend of experience as a former private sector lawyer, financial services reporter, and state regulator," said David Bergers, Director of the SEC's Boston Regional Office. "His background and his 10 years of experience conducting exams of investment advisers and investment companies throughout New England are a perfect combination to help the Boston examination program continue to fulfill its mission of investor protection."

Carlo di Florio, Director of the SEC's Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations, added, "Mike has contributed significantly to the transformation of our national exam program over the past 18 months. His energy, SEC experience, and knowledge of the financial services industry make him a great addition to the examination program's local and national leadership."

Mr. Garrity said, "It is an honor to be part of the national exam leadership team and continue serving investors, particularly those individuals and institutions investing to create a secure retirement for Americans. I am fortunate to continue working with the professionals in the Boston office, throughout the SEC, and at other government and regulatory organizations to further the investor protection mission."

Prior to his SEC employment, Mr. Garrity practiced law at Bingham, Dana & Gould (now Bingham McCutchen) and served as an enforcement attorney for the Massachusetts Secretary of State's Securities Division. Mr. Garrity also spent approximately 10 years as a reporter for several newspapers and financial services news outlets, and was a public school teacher.

Mr. Garrity, 54, obtained his bachelor's degree, cum laude, from Marquette University and his law degree from Boston College.