2026 MALEM Awards Announced

The Maine Association of Local Emergency Managers (MALEM) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 MALEM Awards. MALEM is a professional association dedicated to supporting and advancing emergency management professionals across Maine through collaboration, professional development, and peer recognition.

Each year, the MALEM Awards & Scholarship Committee oversees a structured nomination and review process. Nominations are submitted by peers or colleagues, and evaluated based on established criteria, including leadership, impact, service, mentorship, and overall contributions to the field of emergency management. This year’s selection process was highly competitive, reflecting the depth of talent and commitment within Maine’s emergency management community.

We are pleased to recognize the following 2026 award recipients:

Service Award – Kelsey Preecs (Individual Assistance Officer, Maine Emergency Management Agency) The Service Award is presented to an individual who has put service before self in the field of emergency management in Maine. Recipients bring innovative ideas, strategies, and leadership to their work, creating positive impacts within their communities and strengthening resilience through meaningful individual or team contributions.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Tony Fletcher (State Dam Inspector, Maine Emergency Management Agency) The Lifetime Achievement Award honors a Maine professional with at least 15 years of dedicated service to emergency management at the local, county, state, or federal level. Recipients are recognized for major contributions to the advancement of emergency management in Maine and for influencing and mentoring future generations of emergency managers.

Emerging Professional Award – Chris McCall (Emergency Preparedness Coordinator & Coastal Resilience Program Manager, York County Emergency Management Agency) The Emerging Professional Award recognizes an emergency management professional with fewer than five years of experience who demonstrates strong understanding of the field, meaningful contributions in their role, and a clear commitment to continued excellence and service to their community.

Mentorship Award – Bill Guindon (Mass Care Coordinator, Maine Emergency Management Agency)The Mentorship Award honors an individual who supports, encourages, and promotes a positive and inclusive environment while contributing to the professional and personal development of others. Mentorship includes guidance on projects, professional growth, and the encouragement of leadership within the emergency management community.

MALEM extends sincere thanks to the volunteer members of the Awards & Scholarship Committee — Dale Rowley, Emily Huber, and Emily Kaster — for their thoughtful review and dedication to ensuring a meaningful selection process. Congratulations to this year’s award recipients, and thank you to everyone who submitted nominations and continues to strengthen the emergency management profession in Maine.