On a recent episode of the USFA Podcast, Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator, reflected on her tenure and the leadership transition ahead.
She confirmed that her resignation, effective January 20, 2025, is standard procedure as a presidential appointee following an administration change.
Dr. Moore-Merrell shared details of the transition process. Chief Donna Black, who was appointed Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator in December 2024, will assume the role of Acting Fire Administrator upon Dr. Moore-Merrell’s departure.
Superintendent Eriks Gabliks of the National Fire Academy will step into the Acting Deputy Fire Administrator position.
This arrangement will remain until a new administrator is appointed, a process often extending into September or October due to extensive background checks required for presidential appointees.
Dr. Moore-Merrell highlighted key accomplishments during her three-and-a-half years as U.S. Fire Administrator.
Notably, she emphasized the creation of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS), launched in November 2024.
NERIS is designed to provide critical data and analytics for fire services at all levels of government.
Dr. Moore-Merrell stated: “The information we need to move in any of those directions is in the data.”
She noted that the system will support fire departments by improving resource deployment and risk response strategies.
She also discussed the Fire Service One Voice initiative, which brought together national organizations to address collective challenges and maintain momentum within the fire service.
Dr. Moore-Merrell highlighted her efforts to foster collaboration on a global scale through initiatives like the World Fire Congress.
The event brought together 56 nations, the United Nations, and the European Union to address shared challenges and establish international networks.
Domestically, she emphasized the importance of connecting with local fire departments through station visits and discussions.
“It keeps us making sure USFA is relevant,” she said, reflecting on the value of engaging directly with firefighters and leaders nationwide.
Ahead of her departure, she expressed optimism about the future of the U.S. Fire Administration.
She emphasized the need for continuity in leadership and collaboration, encouraging her colleagues to maintain the momentum of key initiatives.
She stated: “I want it to be such that you all as the leaders of USFA don’t even know I’ve left, right? And that’s how an organization should carry on.”
Dr. Moore-Merrell concluded by expressing confidence in Chief Donna Black’s readiness to lead and reiterated the importance of solidarity across the fire service to continue addressing shared goals and challenges.
Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell reflected on her time as U.S. Fire Administrator and shared details about her resignation, effective January 20, 2025.
She discussed the transition process, noting that Chief Donna Black will act as U.S. Fire Administrator until a new appointment is made.
Key accomplishments during her tenure include the launch of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) and the Fire Service One Voice initiative.
She also highlighted global collaborations through the World Fire Congress and emphasized the importance of engaging directly with local fire departments to ensure USFA’s relevance.
As Dr. Moore-Merrell steps down, she expressed confidence in the leadership team’s ability to maintain momentum and encouraged continued collaboration across the fire service to address shared challenges.
