New York City Mayor Eric Adams today swore in Laura Kavanagh as commissioner of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Kavanagh previously served as first deputy commissioner and, most recently, as acting-fire commissioner. As FDNY commissioner, Kavanagh will oversee the day-to-day administration of the agency’s 17,000 employees and $2 billion budget.
“Laura Kavanagh is a proven and tested leader, and I’m proud to announce her historic appointment today,” said Adams. “No matter her role, Commissioner Kavanagh has always been a leader — from helping to lead the FDNY’s response to the Ebola outbreak in 2015 to steering the ship during the COVID-19 pandemic, to directing a firefighter recruitment program that resulted in the most diverse applicant pool in the department’s history. New Yorkers and New York City’s ‘Bravest’ deserve an exceptional leader and Commissioner Kavanagh has the vision, the skills, and the compassion to lead the FDNY into the future.”
Kavanagh said she has seen the talent and sacrifices the men and woman of the department make protecting the city.
“This is the greatest city in the world and the greatest fire department in the world. To serve both is the honor of a lifetime,” said Kavanagh. “I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to lead this great department, and I thank the more than 17,000 firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, fire marshals, fire inspectors and civilian personnel for all they do 24/7 to keep our city safe.”
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