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Carthage alumnus honored for disaster preparedness efforts

January 19, 2012

David L. Maack, '88, talks with U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano. Maack was honored as a Champion of Change for his work in emergency management.

Maack chosen as one of Champions of Change

A Carthage alumnus went to the White House to receive an award for his leadership in emergency preparedness.

David L. Maack, '88, was among 17 leaders from communities around the nation who were honored as Champions of Change on Thursday, Jan. 19. Mr. Maack serves as Racine County Emergency Management coordinator.

A White House press release cited his record of building "an emergency management program that has received national recognition for innovative programs built on community partnerships and collaborations." Most recently, he has worked with local churches and others in the faith community.

"This past year we've been reminded that disasters can strike at any time and that preparedness is critical," U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano said in a press release. "We commend the innovative practices and achievements that these individuals bring to the field of emergency management in order to make our communities safer, stronger and better prepared."

The Champions of Change program focuses on a different issue each week, recognizing those who stand out in their efforts to improve their communities. Mr. Maack participated in a roundtable discussion at the White House. Video of the event can be viewed online.

The program brought Mr. Maack to Washington for two days of sessions. On Wednesday, Jan. 18, the emergency preparedness leaders met with a top official from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as well as with members of Congress or their staffers.

"It validates what we've been doing," Mr. Maack said of the honor, but more importantly it allows communities to swap ideas and replicate some of those creative initiatives.

Mr. Maack majored in political science, business management and public administration while at Carthage. He was a longtime Racine alderman and remains active on a variety of boards, committees and commissions.