Angee Morgan named 2025 Recipient of National Distinguished Service Award

Angee Morgan, deputy director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Lacy E. Suiter Distinguished Service Award by the National Emergency Management Association (NEMA). This is one of the highest honors in the emergency management profession. The award honors the late Lacy E. Suiter, the former director of Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, and a pioneer in emergency management whose career set the standard for professionalism and dedication to public service.

"Angee Morgan's innovative and thoughtful approach to emergency management has strengthened Kansas' preparedness and set a national standard for excellence," Governor Laura Kelly said. "This well-deserved recognition is a testament to her lifelong commitment to protecting Kansans and building stronger, more resilient communities."

"I'm incredibly honored to receive the Lacy Suiter Award. His legacy continues to inspire my commitment to serving the people of our communities," Morgan said. "This recognition is not mine alone-it reflects the support, mentorship, and encouragement I've received from colleagues, mentors, and my family. I'm grateful to be part of a field that values service, dedication, and teamwork."

The Lacy E. Suiter Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to emergency management and demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing the field. Morgan, a respected national leader with more than two decades of experience in emergency management, was recognized for her unwavering commitment to strengthening preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts both in Kansas and across the nation.

During her tenure with KDEM, Morgan has been instrumental in guiding the state through numerous disasters and emergencies, fostering collaboration among local, state, federal, and private-sector partners, and championing innovative programs that enhance community resilience. She has also played a key role in shaping national emergency management policy through her active engagement with NEMA and other professional associations, mentoring the next generation of emergency management leaders and advocating for continuous improvement in the field.

"Angee Morgan embodies the spirit of service and leadership that defines this award," said Trina Sheets, NEMA Executive Director. "Her vision, dedication, and collaborative approach have strengthened not only Kansas's emergency management capabilities but also the broader national system. She represents the very best of our profession."

Morgan accepted the award during the 2025 NEMA Annual Forum, held in Cheyenne, Wyoming where emergency management leaders from across the country gathered to address emerging challenges and share best practices.