Fire Chief Virgil Fernandez Leading the Nation to Diversity
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2017
Fire Chief Virgil Fernandez Leads the Nation to Diversity
– Joins 14 of the Finest Fire Chiefs to Discuss the Importance of Inclusiveness –
Miami Beach, FL – When it comes to fire hazard and emergency response leaders,
Miami Beach Fire Chief Virgil Fernandez is acclaimed for innovation in fire protocol and
education. Now, the city’s very own is also being recognized for helping pave the path to
diversity.
The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) recently selected Chief Fernandez for
the Diversity Executive Leadership Program (iDELP) in response to his successful
efforts addressing inclusiveness and recognizing the impact those challenges have on
the fire and emergency service community.
Under Chief Fernandez’s leadership, the Miami Beach Fire Department has made
significant strides in diversity, including Firefighter Digna Abello’s promotion to chief of
training in 2014, which made her the first female firefighter to reach the rank of a division
chief in the history of Miami Beach Fire. A year later, Chief Fernandez promoted Darryl
Bell to the command staff position of division chief of support services — making him the
first African American to rise within the ranks of the department to assume this
leadership role.
“Chief Fernandez has made a name for our city as a leader in fire protection and
prevention,” expressed City Manager Jimmy L. Morales. “We’re also proud to see his
management efforts are not only recognized here at home, but on a national stage
where he can inspire others to follow suit.”
In its inaugural year, iDELP aims to provide current and future leaders the opportunity to
come together to explore, learn and develop solutions to present and emerging
challenges in regards to diversity. Chief Fernandez will work alongside 14 other
renowned fire service chiefs and public figures sharing ideas that foster a diverse and
inclusive fire emergency workforce in their departments – creating a stronger and safer
fire community across the nation.
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