Top Ontario award goes to fire chief in Mississauga for ‘commitment to inclusion’
Published February 29, 2024 at 1:04 pm
Mississauga’s top firefighter has received Ontario’s highest honour for public service.
Fire Chief Deryn Rizzi received the 2023 Lieutenant Governor’s Medal of Distinction in Public Administration on Wednesday night at a ceremony in Toronto.
The prestigious award recognizes the Mississauga fire chief’s “commitment to inclusion, accountability and service delivery,” City of Mississauga officials said in a news release on Thursday.
Rizzi is no stranger to top awards and other honours, having been recognized in 2023 as Fire Chief of the Year by the Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association. And in 2022, she was included on Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 list by WXN (Women’s Executive Network).
She said receiving the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal of Distinction is an honour.
“I am passionate about improving public safety through public education and pushing for progress, innovation and inclusivity,” Rizzi said in the news release. “What makes this journey incredibly rewarding is the dedication of the exceptional team I am fortunate to work with, who commit themselves tirelessly to public service, ensuring community safety and achieving service level excellence.”
City officials, meanwhile, applauded Mississauga’s fire chief for her many accomplishments and “the invaluable contributions” she has made to Mississauga throughout her career.
“Her dedication to public service and inclusive leadership has served to not only enhance and strengthen the Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services team, but also foster collaborative partnerships and initiatives aimed at enhancing fire safety awareness and community preparedness,” said Shari Lichterman, Mississauga’s city manager and chief administrative officer.
Mississauga officials noted the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal of Distinction in Public Administration recognizes a public servant in Ontario who has demonstrated exemplary leadership, dedication and innovation, and contributed significantly to their community.
Mississauga Fire Chief Deryn Rizzi with her award recognizing her last year as Ontario Fire Chief of the Year.