ST. PAUL — Allison Farole has been named the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) director.

She is coming to HSEM from Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she was the city's emergency management administrator.

Farole, who will officially begin with HSEM on May 7, 2025, will oversee the division’s efforts to help build communities that can effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies and disasters.

"We are delighted to have Allison as the new director of HSEM," DPS Assistant Commissioner T. John Cunningham said. “Her proven leadership and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly be invaluable as we continue to serve our residents, businesses and visitors when they need us the most.”

Farole has over a decade of experience in emergency management leadership roles in Virginia and Michigan.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated team,” Farole said. “Together, we will continue to support communities, building their resilience and empowering them to meet all challenges with the backing of our team.”

The Homeland Security and Emergency Management division of the Department of Public Safety helps Minnesota mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters. The division's primary purpose is to build communities that are prepared to respond to emergencies and have the perseverance to quickly recover from the effects of the disaster.