Clay resident named to commission

Gerri Husband, a Clay County resident and a division director for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, has been appointed to the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) Commission of the International Association of Emergency Mangers (IAEM).

Husband has spent her entire career in the public safety field.

The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), which has more than 5,000 members worldwide, is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to promoting the principles of emergency management and representing those professionals whose goals are saving lives and protecting property and the environment during emergencies and disasters. The CEM Commission is made up of emergency management professionals including representatives from allied fields, education, military and private industry.

As a member of the CEM Commission, Husband will be tasked with reviewing applications for emergency management certification which includes assessment of training, education, references, experience, a multiple choice exam, management essay, and contribution to the field of emergency management. After completing this evaluation, applicants can be granted either Certified Emergency Manager or Associate Emergency Manager distinction.

IDHS has assisted emergency managers in their application for CEM certification; most recently by sponsoring 22 emergency managers from Indiana. By achieving this designation, these individuals show they are devoted to the field of emergency management and have the opportunity to continue to improve their knowledge and abilities.

While Husband will not be able to review any applications to the CEM Commission from Indiana, having her in this position will be advantageous to Hoosier emergency managers. "I hope we will inspire emergency managers to recognize that CEM certification is available to them," said Husband. "IDHS will continue to engage professionals to pursue these credentials."

Starting her career as a member of the Lewis Township Volunteer Fire Department in Coalmont, Indiana, Husband has worked her way through all levels of emergency response and management. She served as the EMA Director for Clay County before working as the local public health coordinator. Upon joining IDHS, Husband has risen through the ranks to become the Director of IDHS's Field Services Division. She previously served as an exercise training manager, training branch chief, and assistant director of Field Services within the department.

Her assortment of experience at multiple levels of government and public safety will help bring a unique voice to the CEM Commission. Husband's appointment to this commission will not interfere with her responsibilities with IDHS. She will continue as the Director of the Field Services Division, travelling to Falls Church, Virginia, IAEM's home office, 2-3 times each year for the CEM Commission meetings.