Emmitsburg, MD – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), along with the Fire Protection Publications (FFP)/International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA), the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announced today that six senior fire officials will receive fellowships to attend Harvard University's Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program this summer at the John F. Kennedy School of Government. The 19-day program, which includes State and local government leaders from across the United States and other countries, focuses on exploring the interrelationships between citizens and government, analyzing policy options, and examining the ethical and professional responsibilities of leadership.

In congratulating the fellowship recipients, Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator Glenn Gaines said, "USFA and our partner organizations feel very strongly that this experience at the Kennedy School of Government enables fire and emergency services officials to have important conversations between elected officials, careerists, and appointed executives. Now more than ever we need to collectively examine and discuss the critical challenges facing state and local governments."

Gaines went on to say, "These senior fire executives will have an experience that will support their ability to exercise leadership. Our cities and communities are confronted with significant challenges and the Harvard program is a very valuable and unique experience that assists the fellows selected in exercising leadership to overcome them. The partnering organizations are delighted to award these fellowships."

The fellowship program for senior fire service executives is a joint effort between the USFA and FFP/IFSTA, IAFC, NFPA, and Harvard. The final element of the competitive selection process was held on April 26 at the USFA's National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland.

The fellowships were awarded by the John F. Kennedy School of Government's Admission Committee based upon recommendations of a nominating panel that included representatives from each partner organization and former program participants. Those selected are:

• Todd Bower, Deputy Fire Chief, City of Denver (Colorado) Fire Department
• Patrick Butler, Assistant Chief, City of Los Angeles (California) Fire Department
• Steve Cover, Fire Chief, City of Virginia Beach (Virginia) Fire Department
• Daniel Kistner, Fire Chief, City of Lufkin (Texas) Fire Department
• John McKearney, Fire Chief, City of Vancouver (British Columbia) Fire Department, Canada
• Brian Sturdivant, Fire Chief, City of Milpitas (California) Fire Department

For more information, contact: USFA Press Office Phone: (301) 447-1853