New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has officially announced the appointment of Lillian Bonsignore as the city’s next fire commissioner. This significant decision marks a notable milestone as Bonsignore will become only the second woman to hold this esteemed position, following in the footsteps of Laura Kavanagh.
The announcement is set to take place at 1 p.m. at Fort Totten, home to the FDNY EMS Academy, underscoring the importance of emergency medical services within the fire department. Bonsignore, a seasoned professional with a remarkable 31-year career in the FDNY, retired in 2022 and has built a reputation as a strong, no-nonsense leader. Her tenure includes serving as Chief of EMS Operations from 2019 to 2020 and later as Chief of the EMS Academy starting in 2016.
Her leadership style is reminiscent of that of Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who is also remaining in her role under the new administration. As Bonsignore prepares to take the helm, current First Deputy Commissioner Mark Guerra is acting as fire commissioner until Mamdani officially assumes office. Guerra will be formally sworn in at Gracie Mansion at the same time as Bonsignore’s announcement.
Bonsignore’s appointment reflects the city’s commitment to fostering strong leadership in emergency services, and her extensive experience positions her well to address the challenges faced by the FDNY. With a track record of dedication and leadership, Bonsignore’s selection is anticipated to inspire confidence among the ranks of the fire department and the broader community. This pivotal moment not only highlights the growing presence of women in leadership roles within traditionally male-dominated fields but also represents a hopeful advancement for progressive change in the city’s emergency management landscape.