Tonya Hoover awarded 2024 James M. Shannon Advocacy Medal

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announced that Tonya Hoover, Deputy Administrator of the United States Fire Administration (USFA), was awarded the 2024 James M. Shannon Advocacy Medal.

Established in honor of Jim Shannon, who served as NFPA president for 12 years, this medal recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding advocacy in promoting fire safety for the general public and the fire service. The presentation of the James M. Shannon Advocacy Medal took place at the NFPA Stars at Night awards ceremony during the annual NFPA Conference & Expo (C&E) in Orlando on Sunday, June 16, 2024.

Tonya Hoover's dedication to fire safety began as a junior firefighter and has continued throughout her distinguished career. She rose to the ranks of California State Fire Marshal and now serves as the Deputy Administrator of the United States Fire Administration. Her journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to protecting lives and properties from the devastating effects of fire.

One of Hoover's most notable achievements was her steadfast advocacy for home fire sprinklers in California. Her efforts ensured that the requirement for sprinklers remained in effect, significantly enhancing fire safety standards and saving countless lives. Her advocacy extends far beyond this achievement, as she has been a relentless champion for fire safety issues nationwide.

As Deputy Fire Administrator at the USFA, Hoover oversees the training of over 100,000 first responders annually, manages the National Fire Incident Reporting System, and leads critical fire prevention and public education programs. Her leadership and vision have profoundly impacted the fire service community.

Hoover's service on the NFPA Board and other esteemed fire safety organizations further underscores her dedication to the fire service. Her contributions have helped shape policies and standards that enhance the safety and effectiveness of fire services across the country.

The 2024 NFPA Stars at Night Gala celebrated 14 individuals or organizations across seven award categories. You can learn more about this year's recipients by visiting the awards section of the NFPA website.

For this release and other announcements about NFPA initiatives, research, and resources, please visit the NFPA press room.