This year, Casey Cook achieved a major career milestone by becoming one of just 23 Public Information Officers (PIOs) to graduate from FEMA’s prestigious Master Public Information Officer (MPIO) program. With this accomplishment, she joins an elite group of only 179 MPIOs worldwide.

The journey was intensive, spanning 10 months and including 3 trips to FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute (EMI). Over countless hours, Casey poured dedication into her thesis, which ultimately scored high enough to earn a place in the National Emergency Training Center library—a significant achievement that underscores her expertise and commitment to the field.

Throughout the program, she credits invaluable support from mentors and instructors Larry Hill, Scott Thomsen, and Dr. Joe Trahan, APR, Fellow PRSA. Their mentorship, she noted, was instrumental in her success. She also extends special thanks to Nicole Shutts for her consistent support in accommodating the cohort and ensuring they stayed organized and on track.

In addition to professional growth, Casey formed lasting bonds with her fellow MPIOs. Reflecting on these friendships, she fondly recalls the camaraderie and shared inside jokes—especially their memorable whiteboard jokes—that made the experience unforgettable. “This has been, without a doubt, the most amazing experience of my career,” she shared, expressing gratitude for the connections and memories forged through this remarkable journey.

Congratulations Casey on such a great achievement and we are so honored to be able to witness these achievements in your career!