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We Are FEMA: Meet Kristin Duquette

Kristin Duquette speaking
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As a kid, Kristin Duquette dreamed of being an Olympic swimmer. “There’s nothing like representing your country on an international stage,” Kristin says. To this day, she still finds comfort and joy swimming, though her experience and drive has taken her impact well beyond the pool.

Kristin has competed on and led Team USA, spoken at the United Nations, served as confidential assistant to the Chief of Staff for the National Endowment for the Arts under the Obama Administration and is a selected U.S. representative and expert on various human rights topics on international platforms.

These accomplishments merely scratch the surface of her character and accomplishments.  Today, the five-time American Paralympic swimming record holder and a renowned advocate for disability rights has led her to a career in public service.

“After retiring from swimming,” Kristen said. “I transitioned my passion to represent the U.S. to serving our country, particularly during times most in need of comfort and protection.”

At FEMA, Kristin serves as a preparedness officer for the Transportation Security Grant Program. The work she does helps to protect public transportation agencies, critical transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism. She is also in the Homeland Defense and Security Master’s Program at the Naval Postgraduate School as part of her efforts to do the most she can in her field. Additionally, Kristin formerly served as director of diversity and inclusion for FEMA's Women's Leadership Forum. Her commitment to FEMA’s core values of compassion, fairness, integrity and respect shine through in her work.

Kristin says, “My passion for working at FEMA derives from my interest in securing our nation, particularly vulnerable groups, against foreign and homegrown terrorism, and the fluid environment of homeland security.”

The We Are FEMA campaign highlights employees like Kristin, who are committed to serving our country before, during and after disasters. It takes a deeper look at the employees who work to make our nation safer, stronger and more prepared. The campaign allows others to learn more about the mission-driven work and the who, what and why behind the FEMA mission. The faces of FEMA are diverse, but they share the same goal: to help people before, during and after disaster.

To join our team, visit FEMA.gov/careers to see the latest job openings.

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