The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has announced Kelly Ransdell as the new director of the NFPA Public Education division. In this role, Ransdell will oversee all public education messaging, program development and implementation, and serve as the primary public education expert for NFPA.

“Kelly is a seasoned professional with a track record of advancing fire and life safety public education at the national, state, and local level,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA. “Along with her boundless passion, dedication, and energy, Kelly’s knowledge and experience will play an invaluable role in furthering our public education messages and information.”

Ransdell brings a career-long passion for public education and is a recognized expert throughout the country. Most recently, she served as the NFPA regional director for the South Central United States for the past four years. Before then, she was an NFPA regional specialist, covering 17 states for five years. Prior to joining the association in 2015, Ransdell worked as the deputy director of the North Carolina Department of Insurance - Office of State Fire Marshal, overseeing the Prevention, Programs and Grants Division for nearly 15 years. In addition, she was the state director of Safe Kids North Carolina, which included 42 coalitions covering 72 counties, for 11 years.

Before becoming an NFPA staff member, Ransdell was involved with the association in many capacities. In 2007, she began working as an NFPA public education advisor in 11 states. In addition, she was a member of the NFPA 1035 committee that provides technical assistance for national fire prevention standards.

Ransdell is highly regarded in the public education community and will work collaboratively with fire and life safety professionals to advance safety through effective public education information and programs.