NYSAFC Announces Annual Conference Keynote Speaker

 NYSAFC is pleased to announce the 114th Annual Conference & FIRE 2020 Expo Keynote Address, “In Honor of the Charleston 9: A Study of Change Following Tragedy,” to be presented by Dr. David Griffin, battalion chief and deputy director of training with the Charleston (SC) Fire Department.

The Keynote Address will be held during the General Session on Thursday, June 11, 2020, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, Memorial Hall, in Syracuse, NY and is open to all attendees. The FIRE 2020 Keynote Address is sponsored by VFIS.

On June 18, 2007, nine firefighters perished in a warehouse fire in Charleston, SC. What was initially dispatched as a trash fire escalated into one of the most scrutinized events in national fire service history. David Griffin had the unfortunate experience of being the engineer on the first due engine that day. As he operated on the fireground, he witnessed things that he will never forget. In this presentation, Griffin will provide firsthand accounts of that day, share video footage with radio traffic, and discuss the heavy toll this catastrophic event took on his life. He will review the incredible changes that he and the CFD have made following this tragedy, present scientific research regarding the change process, and explain how this event and his innovative research have changed the national fire service.

Dr. David Griffin is a battalion chief and deputy director of training with the Charleston (SC) Fire Department. He earned a bachelor of science degree in education from The Citadel, a master of science degree in executive fire service leadership, and a doctorate of education in organizational leadership and development. Griffin is the author of the best-selling book In Honor of The Charleston 9: A Study of Change Following Tragedy, as well as ACTION: 9 Missions for Personal and Professional Growth, From PTSD to PTG: A Firefighter's Journey After A Multiple LODD Incident, and Tattoos and Trauma: The Healing Power of Tattoos for Emergency Responders. He is an international lecturer and instructor, a certified chief fire officer and chief training officer with the Center for Public Safety Excellence, and a graduate of the National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program. Griffin was recently selected to complete the Harvard University Kennedy School Executive Education program “Senior Executives in State and Local Government” in July of 2020. He is also the owner of On A Mission, LLC.

The 114th Annual Conference & FIRE 2020 Expo will be held from June 10-13 at The Oncenter in downtown Syracuse, NY. Learn more here.

Sponsored by: