Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire Educator Recognized As 2026 NFPA Rising Star
Brianna Varsamis honoured for leadership in fire prevention, education and community safety
Brianna Varsamis of the Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire and Emergency Services has been selected by the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) as a 2026 NFPA Rising Star, an annual recognition that honors and supports fire and life safety educators who have effectively implemented NFPA programs and initiatives in their communities.
Brianna is one of 10 recipients chosen for this year’s recognition, which features a scholarship to attend the upcoming NFPA Conference & Expo®, the premier event for fire, electrical, and building safety professionals worldwide.
“Brianna has demonstrated a strong commitment to reducing Whitchurch- Stouffville residents’ risk to fire and related hazards through consistent, innovative outreach to residents,” said Kelly Ransdell, director of the NFPA Public Education Division. “We’re thrilled to recognize her as an NFPA Rising Star, and to help strengthen and support their efforts moving forward.”
To be considered for an NFPA Rising Star recognition, the individual must use and implement NFPA resources and programs, such as the NFPA Learn Not to Burn® educational curriculum for young students, the Steps to Safety™ fall and prevention program for older adults, and Fire Prevention Week™, the largest annual public awareness campaign for NFPA. They must also be fire and life safety educators who excel in the field, demonstrate enthusiasm about their work, and are interested in learning more about NFPA programs, materials, and resources. All candidates are identified by NFPA regional directors and public education network representatives who submit their recommendations to the NFPA Public Education Division for final selection.
“This is a tremendous honour for Brianna in recognition of the excellent service she provides to our community each and every day, we are extremely proud to have her as a member of our team” said Whitchurch-Stouffville Fire Chief Bill Snowball.
While attending the NFPA Conference & Expo this June, NFPA Rising Stars will collaborate with the public education network representatives who represent Ontario, to identify the fire and life safety programs and initiatives they plan to implement in their communities. They are also invited to participate in professional development webinars throughout the year to enhance their knowledge, which further benefits the fire departments and communities they serve.
The NFPA Rising Stars program includes travel, conference registration, and lodging for the NFPA Conference & Expo.
To find out more about fire and life safety education programs and activities in Whitchurch- Stouffville, please contact the Whitchurch- Stouffville Fire & Emergency Services at 905-640-9595 and/or email wsfes@townofws.ca. For more information about NFPA programs, visit nfpa.org/education.