Fire Chief Nate Hartinger (first from left) and FOA Vice Chanellor Clare Shinnerl (second from left) stand and smile with the univerisity's firefighters
Interim Fire Chief Nate Hartinger and the Vice Chancellor for Finance, Operations and Administration Clare Shinnerl (first and second from left) smile alongside the firefighters honored at the reception.

Honoring the Service and Dedication of UC Davis Firefighters

On January 31, 2025, UC Davis leaders gathered at Fire Station 34 to recognize the extraordinary service and dedication of the university’s firefighters. 

Hosted by Vice Chancellor for Finance, Operations and Administration Clare Shinnerl and Chancellor Gary S. May, the reception celebrated the bravery and commitment of those who protect the campus community and extend their expertise to other California communities during wildfires.

Firefighters sit at white round tables and listen to the reception
The reception was held in Fire Station 34, home of the UC Davis Fire Department.
Standing left to right, Fire Chief Nate Hartinger, Chancellor Gary May, and FOA Vice Chancellor Clare Shinnerl talk to a group of seated firefighters.
Chancellor Gary S. May celebrated the firefighters alongside Fire Chief Nate Hartinger and FOA Vice Chancellor Clare Shinnerl.

The event held special significance in light of UC Davis' recent firefighting contributions during the devastating Southern California wildfires. UC Davis Fire Department personnel were among those who responded, providing critical support to impacted communities. Their efforts exemplify both their exceptional skill and the university’s deep commitment to public service.

“Whether battling raging fires, responding to emergencies, or providing aid in times of crisis, you embody the very best of UC Davis. Your bravery and resilience inspire us all, and we can never fully express our gratitude for the risks you take and the sacrifices you make," Chancellor May said in his remarks during the reception.

Chief Nate Hartinger, Vice Chancellor Clare Shinnerl and Chancellor Gary May speak with firefighters.
The Fire Chief, Chancellor, and Vice Chancellor spoke with firefighters personally, acknowledging each of their contributions to the UCDFD.
Fire Chief Nate Hartinger and FOA Vice Chancellor Clare Shinnerl stand at a podium and speak to firefighters
The reception recognized the firefighters' dedication to safety not just on the UC Davis campus but across California.

Over the past year, UC Davis firefighters deployed 11 times to wildfires across the state, from Siskiyou to Butte, Plumas, Shasta, and Tehama counties. During deployments lasting up to 14 days, other UCDFD personnel stepped in to maintain fire protection and emergency response on campus, ensuring the UC Davis community remained safe.

"Each time our crews deploy, they bring critical expertise and Aggie compassion to communities in need," said Interim Fire Chief Nathaniel Hartinger. "Each time, we are grateful for their safe return."