Embracing Public Service: My Journey as a John D. Solomon Fellow with NYCEM

By Khiabet Salazar, New York City Emergency Management, Emergency Operations Center Fellow

As I start my post as a John D. Solomon Fellow with NYCEM’s Emergency Operations Center Unit, I am filled with gratitude and enthusiasm. Learning about this Fellowship truly resonated with me, given my commitment to public service and my 3 years of experience in humanitarian response with various United Nations entities. Due to the latter, I understand the critical importance of putting people at the center of our efforts, preparing for different types and scopes of emergencies and leveraging the expertise of relevant actors for a rapid, standard-oriented and coordinated response.

My professional experience and current academic venture at SIPA-Columbia University have also highlighted the key role local governments play in responding to the priorities and demands of their communities. Having worked extensively in Latin America and being a Fulbright scholar, I am particularly eager to engage with U.S. public administration and I feel a strong commitment to contribute to its vibrant, diverse and welcoming communities.

Working with NYCEM for a month now has been a privilege. Collaborating with my supervisor, colleagues, and other agencies has given me invaluable insights into the city’s emergency preparedness and response. In just one month, I’ve been impressed by the meticulous protocols, guidelines and capacity-building resources in place. Learning from dedicated professionals in the most populous city in the country is an inspiring experience.

I’m motivated to contribute to our preparedness and inter-agency coordination. As a John D. Solomon Fellow, I share a commitment to serving our communities when they need it most. I look forward to the journey ahead and the impact we can make together.