April 16--DURHAM -- Dan Curia, who said he always wanted to make his family proud of him, was sworn in Monday as chief of the Durham Fire Department.
"Now, here I am at the culmination of my professional career," he said. "It's pretty humbling."
Curia was sworn in at City Hall by Durham Mayor Bill Bell, surrounded by family, friends and coworkers, whom he credited for helping him rise to the top of the department he joined 23 years ago.
He said being chosen to lead the department was a dream come true.
"When I look around this room, I see people I grew up with," he said. "And now, to be given this opportunity to lead them is pretty humbling."
Curia, 44, was named fire chief in February by City Manager Tom Bonfield after a nationwide search.
Bonfield said Curia's credentials made him the right choice.
"He has made a 23-year journey to continually look for opportunities to improve himself, improve his leadership abilities, and truly put himself in a position not just of enhanced service, but enhanced opportunities," Bonfield said.
Deputy City Manager William "Bo" Ferguson said he's been impressed by Curia's knowledge of his department and staff.
"Tonight is a celebration of a bright future for our city and for this department," Ferguson said. "I think we're all very lucky to have him at the helm."
Before his prepared remarks, Curia alluded to Monday's bombing in Boston and attacks on firefighters in Atlanta and New York in recent months as evidence that "the fabric of America is changing."
"But at the same time, the trust and honesty and leadership that a firefighter can give has never been more needed than now," he said.
Looking to the future, forming strong partnerships with the schools and community groups will be key to a more effective fire department and a better Durham, Curia said.
"We realize that if we want to make a positive difference, we can't do it alone," he said. "It's going to be a collaborative effort, but I feel we can do it. I feel that the Durham community is great. They'll get behind us if we show them that we're serious about making a difference."
Copyright 2013 - The Herald-Sun, Durham, N.C.
