The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) held its annual fall board meeting in Jackson, WY, on October 13-15, with a total of 67 directors representing 43 states met at the event, most in person while others opted to attend remotely through live streaming technology. Also in attendance were 22 additional fire service representatives and NVFC partners.

“After a difficult year and a half of strictly virtual meetings, the NVFC was happy to once again have the opportunity to meet in person to reconnect and further the business of the Council,” said NVFC chair Steve Hirsch. “We had a successful three days of committee meetings, educational presentations, and general sessions while also celebrating the organisation’s 45^th anniversary and honoring our 2021 award winners.”

The NVFC board is comprised of up to two representatives from 47 state fire associations who meet twice a year to conduct Council business, discuss and vote on issues of importance to the volunteer fire service, and guide the direction of the organisation. This year marks the 45^th anniversary of the NVFC, which was celebrated in a special reception organised by meeting host Wyoming State Firemen’s Association.

Appointment of CEO

The general session kicked off with a tribute to the NVFC’s longtime CEO, Heather Schafer, who passed away in March after 27 years with the Council. Sarah Lee, who had served as deputy CEO for 15 years, took on the role of interim CEO in May. The board voted during the fall meeting to officially make Lee the CEO of the NVFC.

The next NVFC board meeting will take place in Arlington, VA, on April 7-9, 2022.