BURBANK, CA- Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) President and Chief Executive Officer Bryan Frieders has announced his retirement, effective December 31st, 2024, ending a decade-long tenure that has significantly advanced the organization's mission, positioning FCSN as a leader in the fight against cancer in the fire service.
Throughout his 20 years of service with FCSN, including 10 years as President and CEO, Frieders has left an indelible mark on the fire service and FCSN by driving initiatives in cancer prevention, education, and advocacy. His leadership has dramatically changed the way firefighters view occupational cancer.
"An organization should not be defined by what it has done, but for what it aims to achieve", states Frieders. "I have enjoyed the distinct privilege of being part of this organization, and leading it as the president for the last decade. I am confident that we have set FCSN up for continued success by appointing excellent staff to operational positions, and by assembling an innovative Board of Directors that will undoubtedly grow FCSN beyond anything I ever dreamed."
"President Frieders' service to our mission has been exemplary," stated Lisa Raggio, Executive Director. "During Bryan's tenure, the FCSN has grown exponentially by advancing our unique and critical care for firefighters battling cancer while broadening and enhancing our signature cancer awareness and prevention education programs. Bryan has distinguished himself as a judicious steward of our organization, performing his job tirelessly and tenaciously. While we will miss his day-to-day engagement, we look forward to his continued support as advisor, advocate and great friend. Under his leadership, we have improved who we are, what we do and how we serve our cause immensely on his watch."
Among Frieders' major achievements are the publishing of the groundbreaking white paper "Taking Action Against Cancer in the Fire Service" and its recent second edition, "Doing It Right"; the expansion of FCSN's cancer prevention education to 47 states and Canada; partnerships with several National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated cancer treatment centers to deliver concierge health services for firefighters battling cancer; standardizing the FCSN's badge-to badge mentorship program and training; and the production of the distinctive Firefighter's Guide to Cancer Survivorship.
This early announcement allows FCSN to begin the search for its next leader and properly plan as the organization enters its third decade advocating for firefighters. Details on a successor will follow in the coming weeks.
For additional information on the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, please contact Lisa Raggio, Executive Director, at (818) 464-5740 or [email protected].
