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Brian Silva
Vice President of Outreach & Engagement at Americans United for Separation of Church & State (AU)
Professional Background
Brian Silva is a distinguished leader with a rich and diverse background spanning emergency management, community engagement, and equality advocacy. With a storied career focused on public service, he has developed a unique skill set that underscores his commitment to social justice and community preparedness. Currently serving as the Vice President of Outreach and Engagement for Americans United for Separation of Church and State, Brian plays a pivotal role in promoting the importance of church-state separation, advocating for civil liberties, and engaging communities across the nation. His work in this capacity highlights his dedication to creating inclusive spaces and fostering dialogue around critical issues concerning religious freedom and equality.
Before his current position, Brian was the Founder and Executive Director of NEAT, the National Equality Action Team, where he spearheaded initiatives aimed at advancing LGBTQ+ rights and ensuring equality for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. His efforts were instrumental in organizing grassroots campaigns and mobilizing communities to foster change at both local and national levels.
Brian's extensive expertise in grassroots engagement was further showcased during his tenure as the Director of Grassroots Engagement at Freedom for All Americans. In this role, he worked tirelessly to build coalitions and engage stakeholders in the mission for comprehensive nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Additionally, he served as the Executive Director for Marriage Equality USA and Marriage Equality New York, Inc., where he was at the forefront of advocating for marriage equality, as well as providing educational resources to support LGBTQ+ relationships.
Education and Achievements
Brian Silva's educational accomplishments reflect his commitment to professional development and community service. He studied Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (EMT-B) at Unitek College, obtaining his NREMT-B certification, which laid the groundwork for his career in emergency management. His passion for public service led him to pursue a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at the Metropolitan College of New York, where he honed his skills in organizational management and public policy. Furthermore, he earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from the University of Redlands, providing him with a solid foundation in liberal arts education.
As a committed advocate for emergency preparedness, Brian has held numerous significant roles that emphasize his expertise in disaster management and recovery. His experience as the Program Manager for Emergency Preparedness & Business Continuity at the Primary Care Development Corporation showcased his ability to develop effective strategies for responding to emergencies in healthcare settings. He also worked with the American Red Cross of Greater New York, serving as an Exercise Planner for Disaster Training, where he assessed community needs and designed training programs to improve disaster readiness.
In addition to his work in emergency management, Brian demonstrated his commitment to education by serving as a Trainer for Advanced Hurricane Shelter Training for Operators at the City University of New York, School for Professional Studies. He provided vital training to ensure that individuals were prepared to manage shelters effectively during natural disasters.
Achievements
Brian's leadership extends beyond his roles in organizations. He has contributed to various projects that support emergency preparedness and trauma mitigation. As a Grant Reviewer for the Readiness & Emergency Management for Schools Grant Program at the U.S. Department of Education, he played a crucial role in evaluating grant applications aimed at improving safety and preparedness in schools across the nation. His keen insights and experience have made him a valuable asset in shaping policy and frameworks that enhance community resilience.
Furthermore, during his time with the New York City Office of Emergency Management (NYCOEM), Brian served as a Watch Commander, overseeing emergency operations and ensuring public safety during critical incidents. His commitment to community service is evident through his longstanding affiliation with Kenyon Worldwide Disaster Management, where he collaborated with fellow professionals to enhance disaster response capabilities.
With his exceptional background in both emergency management and social advocacy, Brian Silva embodies a holistic approach to fostering community resilience. He has cultivated partnerships with various stakeholders, ranging from government agencies to nonprofit organizations, to achieve impactful outcomes in both sectors. Brian's work exemplifies the intersection of emergency preparedness and social equity, making him a trailblazer in both fields.
In summary, Brian Silva stands out as a remarkable figure known for his dedication to community engagement, emergency management, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. His diverse career has not only shaped his professional trajectory but has also positively impacted countless individuals and communities across the United States. As he continues to champion for equality and preparedness, Brian's efforts serve as an inspiration to many. His journey reflects a steadfast belief that by working together, communities can thrive in the face of adversity, striving for equity, dignity, and resilience for all.