Interview: FDNY first female commissioner Laura Kavanaugh reflects on historic tenure
In an exclusive interview with Muslim Media Corporation, FDNY’s first female commissioner Laura Kavanaugh, the first female Commissioner of the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY), reflects on her groundbreaking tenure as she prepares to step down.
This exclusive conversation marks one of her final media engagements in the role, offering a unique glimpse into her experiences, values, and enduring love for New York City.
Could you please introduce yourself?
I am Laura Kavanaugh, the FDNY Commissioner.
Tell us what we need to know about FDNY.
FDNY is truly the greatest place on earth. It is the best place to ever work. It will change your life. It is not a job. It is a calling. And we take care of our people. So when you join us, you become part of our family. And everything that you give with a family comes with it, love and care and community and breaking bread. And so we hope some brave New Yorkers who wanna give back to their community will come to the fire department and be part of our family.
How important is it for the benefit you just share to be circulated, citywide?
I mean, it’s so important. This is our city, right? We care about it so much. The fire department and the City of New York are intertwined. The fire department is the core part of the fabric of New York City, and so we need New Yorkers to come join the fire department.
Could you tell us a little bit about New York City in general?
Oh, well, I always say New York City is the love of my life. It is the best place I’ve ever been. I’ve lived a lot of places and as soon as I got to New York, I knew this was it for me. I got a one-Way ticket and I never went anywhere else. It is a beautiful mosaic to use the words of David Dinkins. It is the best, most interesting, most lively place you could ever be and be part of, the best fire department in the whole world. And was lucky enough to be here in New York City, is the blessing of a lifetime. So we hope people will join us.
Could you tell about your last method to New Yorkers as the commissioner?
I love them and I will see you guys soon. I’m not going anywhere. Taking a little break and I’ll be right back.