Awards
Chief Emeritus
The establishment of Fire Chief Emeritus is an honorary title for retired Fire Chiefs who have meritorious service to their community and the fire service profession. Fire Chief Emeritus is reserved for those retired chiefs who have had distinguished careers, regardless if paid or volunteer, and whose significant contributions set them apart from their peers.
Nominations submitted are considered based on achievements and service to the fire service community, education and certifications, innovative accomplishments, involvement in professional fire service organizations, and service in the community to include outside organizations during your term as Fire Chief.
2026 Nomination Period Now Open
Deadline for submission - July 31, 2026
Chief of the Year Award
2026 Nominations
Please consider nominating a chief officer as Fire Chief of the Year.
Open to ALL Illinois chief officers, anyone may submit a nomination.
Deadline: August 7, 2026
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It is the intent of the Illinois Fire Chiefs’ Association (IFCA) to recognize outstanding contributions to the fire service at the state and national levels.
The IFCA will consider nominations of chief officers in Illinois who have significant, ongoing contributions in our profession. Considerations include, but are not limited to, public education and life safety advancements; innovative and entrepreneurial efforts and accomplishments; education and or credential portfolio; public-private sector contributions; and other significant recurring performance hallmarks. Recipients of recognition by Illinois Fire Chiefs
Association may be recommended for further consideration at the national level.
Chief Jerry Burke Recognition Award
This award was created in 2021 and named after one of Illinois Fire Chiefs Associations Leaders, Chief Jerry Burke.
Jerry was Fire Chief in Skokie and then served the association for nineteen years as Executive Director. His dedication, guidance and calming demeanor set the foundation for our association and helped to shape the IFCA to what it is today. Jerry was man who understood that asking for your help and simply saying thank you went a long way – just ask many who said yes and did it with an honor and respect for the man. The individual who is awarded this recognition in name of Jerry is one that must exhibit an enthusiasm for the fire service, his fellow man and simply wants to give back at many levels.
The criteria for this award is a nomination brought to the Presidents who exemplifies the fire service motto of selfless service, giving back and in return a smile. This award looks at a person’s journey and the mark they left, who they helped leaving you with the comment ‘That’s the guy I want to be like”. The Award is meant for that person that has gone the extra mile for the Fire Service. The person who lives to help and mentor others. A person who does not ask what’s in it for them. Anyone can be eligible for this award. There is not a specific list of qualifiers or criteria to achieve. The nomination is presented to the IFCA Presidents and after review and consultation if they see fit passes, it along to the Past Presidents Advisory committee for review and decision whether they deserve the award. This award was not created to become an annual award.
Chief Robert Graham - Lake Bluff FD - Recipient 2025
Chief James Grady III - Frankfort FPD, IFCA Executive Director - Recipient 2024
Maureen Griseto - IFCA Administrative Assistant - Recipient 2023
Chief Robert Buhs - Orland Park FPD, IFCA Executive Director - Recipient 2022
Chief Edward Enright - Chicago FD - Initial Recipient - 2021
