WASHINGTON, D.C.–Miyamoto International Research Analyst Dr. Anna Lang was appointed to FEMA’s National Advisory Council (NAC), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced this week. The 35-member council provides advice to FEMA through recommendations on all aspects of emergency management.

FEMA is the United States federal agency charged with planning for and coordinating response to disaster when local authorities are overwhelmed. “I am excited to appoint these individuals to the NAC,” FEMA Administrator Brock Long said. “Their experiences and expertise will add great value…”

“I’m thrilled to be able to collaborate with other expert members of the council,” Lang said. “Our nation is facing unprecedented challenges as we strive to balance economic development with communities’ safety and resiliency.”

The council is comprised of a diverse cross-section of members such as first responders and emergency managers, as well as members from academic, medical, insurance, military and other sectors. An earthquake structural engineer by training, Lang will bring her expertise in earthquake engineering, post-disaster assessment and application of advanced technologies for disaster prediction, mitigation, and response to the council.

“As someone whose work strives daily to bridge the divide between science and technology and real-world problems such as those faced by people during disasters, I believe I will bring a unique and crucial perspective to the council,” Lang said.

Lang previously was a civil servant for the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP), which leads the federal government’s efforts to reduce earthquake fatalities, injuries and property loss. The appointment is a three-year-term.