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VEMA Members, Happy October! This month, I’d like to share some reflections on leadership—an essential element of our profession. In today’s rapidly evolving emergency management landscape, leadership is no longer just a title—it’s a shared responsibility that spans teams, agencies, and communities. As we navigate increasingly complex challenges, such as sustaining funding and safeguarding essential emergency management resources and services, the demand for strong, flexible, and collaborative leadership has never been more critical. Leadership Rooted in Purpose At the heart of emergency management is a shared mission: to support our communities during their most vulnerable moments. This mission demands leaders who are not only technically skilled but also deeply committed to service. Leadership in this field is about showing up with integrity, making tough decisions under pressure, and inspiring others to do the same. The Power of Partnership Emergency management is, by nature, a team sport. Success is never achieved in isolation—it is built through coordinated efforts across disciplines and jurisdictions. Effective leaders understand the value of partnership. They foster trust, encourage open communication, and create space for diverse perspectives to shape solutions. Whether responding to a disaster or planning for future risks, leaders must be connectors—bringing together people, resources, and ideas to drive collective action. Traits That Define Strong Leaders
Leadership at Every Level Leadership isn’t confined to titles. It exists at every level of an organization—from frontline responders to policy makers. Everyone has the capacity to lead by example, influence outcomes, and contribute to a culture of preparedness and resilience. By encouraging leadership development across all roles, we strengthen our collective ability to respond to emergencies and recover more effectively. Leading Forward As we move through October and reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the year, let’s celebrate the partnerships that make our work possible and recognize the leaders—both visible and behind the scenes—who drive our mission forward. Leadership in emergency management is not just about guiding others; it’s about walking alongside them, united by a common goal: protecting and serving our communities when they need us most. Your continued leadership, resilience, and dedication in this ever-evolving environment are deeply appreciated—and essential. Thank you for showing up, leading with purpose, and making a difference every day. Danielle Holmstrom |