Every year, IAEM brings together some of the best and brightest in emergency management to collaborate on solving today's most pressing problems and to learn about the future of disaster management.   

In 2001, I was a part of the founding team with Tuesday's Children, a non-profit organization that cares for communities impacted by terrorism, military conflict, or mass violence. Since then, I have served as a board member, advisor, and mentor. As a native of New York City, I consider the work we have done – and continue to do – to be very close to my heart.  

September is National Preparedness Month, an observance to spread awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen with or without notice. This year's theme is "Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love."