FEMA ADMINISTRATOR SWEARS IN ERIK HOOKS AS DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR [https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20211213/fema-administrator-swears-erik-hooks-deputy-administrator] Release Date: December 13, 2021 WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell swore in Erik Hooks today as the agency’s new Deputy Administrator.  Hooks was appointed for the position by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. earlier this year and confirmed by the Senate last week. “I am so excited for Erik to be joining our team,” said Administrator Criswell. “He has such an amazing background and will be a tremendous asset in helping us take this agency where we want to go, with a people-first approach.” In 2017, Hooks was appointed by North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper to become the state’s Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Advisor, leading the state’s disaster mitigation, response and recovery efforts. In this role, he led nearly 27,000 sworn and civilian public safety professionals, as well as approximately 12,000 National Guard soldiers and airmen. After being sworn into office, Hooks told a story about some advice his brother Pete gave him during a sermon.   “Help me to walk faithfully in my noble purpose,” said Hooks. “Helping people before, during and after disasters – there is no more noble purpose. I thank Administrator Criswell for this opportunity and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.” Hooks devoted three decades to public service in his home state of North Carolina. He served more than 27 years with the state’s bureau of investigation, starting as a special agent.  He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and served on the Executive Committee of the National Governors Homeland Security Advisors Council. [FEMA Administrator Swears in Erik Hooks as Deputy Administrator]