IAFC Names Donna Black as New CEO
Donna Black has been appointed as the next CEO of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC).
Having started her career as a volunteer firefighter in 1997 and progressed through both volunteer and career ranks, Donna Black provides over 29 years of fire service leadership experience. Since 2006, she has been the Town of Duck, North Carolina's Fire Chief.
In 2023, Black was elected as the second woman to serve as both president and board chair of the IAFC in its 153-year history. She has also held the position of Acting U.S. Fire Administrator for the past year, offering leadership and insight at the national level.
“Donna Black’s leadership, dedication, and commitment to the membership make her exceptionally qualified to serve as IAFC’s CEO,” said Chief Trisha Wolford, President and Board Chair. “Her appointment reflects both her achievements and IAFC's ongoing commitment to lead, educate and serve.”
Chief Black has qualifications from the National Fire Academy, Chief Fire Officer, and UNC Chapel Hill in addition to degrees from Ithaca College (B.S.) and the University of Georgia (M.A.).
“I am honored to serve the IAFC,” Black said. “The organization supports fire and EMS leaders, and I look forward to working with members, partners, and staff to advance its mission.”
Black assumes the role effective March 23, 2026.
For more information, visit www.iafc.org.
About the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)
The IAFC represents the leadership of firefighters and emergency responders worldwide. IAFC members are the world's leading experts in firefighting, emergency medical services, terrorism response, hazardous materials response, natural disasters, search and rescue, and public safety legislation. Since 1873, the IAFC has provided a forum for its members to exchange ideas, develop professionally and uncover the latest products and services available to first responders.
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