Fire Service Women of Vision and Leadership

number of fi re service projects involving multiple issues and organizations. Those included the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), the National Fallen Fire fi ghters Foundation (NFFF), and many others. Before going to the NVFC, Heather worked for President Bill Clinton’s Chief of Sta and also for FEMA during Hurricane Andrew. She had a passion for non- pro fi t organizations with a mission of helping others. In fact, Heather earned her master’s degree in Nonpro fi t and Association Management from the University of Maryland. To practice what she preached and set a strong example, Heather was also a member of the Arnold (MD) Volunteer Fire Department. I’ve been writing tributes every day this month highlighting women for their signi fi cant contributions to the fi re service. I was already planning to honor Heather Schafer later this week, but it just seems right to do it today instead. This post is not intended as a eulogy, so lets not just be sad for her loss, but lets honor her service and outstanding achievements as well. She was smart, kind, beautiful inside and out, and an excellent leader and manager. But mostly, she was a good friend – and along with lots of others, I will miss her. Rest in Peace, Heather. Comments from Readers of the March 2021 Women’s History Month Features that Highlighted Women from the Fire and Emergency Services “These tributes are bringing tears to my eyes. Congratulations to all of these incredible women for your many accomplishments and thank you for your service and leadership.” the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), and many others. Before going to the NVFC, Heather worked for President Bill Clinton’s chief of staff and also for FEMA during Hurricane Andrew. She had a passion for nonprofit organizations with a mission of helping others. In fact, Heather earned her master’s degree in nonprofit and association management from the University of Maryland. To practice what she preached and set a strong example, Heather was also a member of the Arnold (Maryland) Volunteer Fire Department. I’ve been writing tributes every day this month highlighting women for their significant contributions to the fire service. I was already planning to honor Heather Schafer later this week, but it just seems right to do it today instead. This post is not intended as a eulogy, so let’s not just be sad for her loss, but let’s honor her service and outstanding achievements as well. She was smart, kind, beautiful inside and out, and an excellent leader and manager. But mostly, she was a good friend – and along with many others, I will miss her. Rest in Peace, Heather.

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