Lillian Bonsignore Named New York City Fire Department Commissioner

New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani will announce Tuesday that Lillian Bonsignore, former chief of emergency medical services, will lead teh New York City Fire Department (FDNY) as commissioner. Bonsignore will be the second woman to lead the FDNY, and the first uniformed woman to hold the position.

Bonsignore, a dedicated EMT with a long career in emergency services, broke barriers in 2019 when she became the first woman to lead the FDNY’s EMS bureau. She demonstrated exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic,navigating the department through record demand as the virus impacted the city.Mamdani highlighted this experience in a statement shared with City & State, emphasizing the need for such decisive leadership during uncertain times.

“Bonsignore’s calm, decisive leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic – when EMS professionals were more vital than ever – is exactly the kind of leadership our city needs in moments of uncertainty,” Mamdani said.

Her appointment signals a strong commitment to addressing the long-standing issue of EMT pay. EMTs have consistently advocated for pay parity with other first responders,and Bonsignore’s leadership is expected to prioritize this crucial issue. Bonsignore is returning from retirement to join Mamdani’s governance, having stepped down in 2022.

Key Takeaways

• Lillian Bonsignore is the first uniformed woman to lead the FDNY.
• She previously led the FDNY’s EMS bureau through the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Her appointment indicates a commitment to improving pay for EMTs.
• Bonsignore is returning to public service after a recent retirement.

Publication Date: 2025/12/23 22:28:16