Changes Within FEMA

Select ONE of the topics listed below and write a 2-page paper.

You must include a minimum of two references, one being from an outside, non-GU source.

Topic #1

The decision to move the Federal Emergency Management Agency into the Department of Homeland Security changed the dynamics of emergency management, including the function and focus of FEMA, the interactions between the nations lead emergency manager and the President, among other changes. On one side, there is the feeling that incorporating FEMA into DHS has helped to concentrate the agencies dealing with hazard and risk under one roof, thereby eliminating some of the problems that occurred on September 11th.

On the other side is the argument that inserting FEMA into DHS has severely weakened the ability of FEMA to perform its required function. Use this forum to state your opinion on whether or not you think FEMA belongs in DHS, or whether it should be returned to Cabinet-level status, and support your answer with examples (hypothetical or actual).

Topic #2

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate has made several significant changes to the way in which FEMA operates, which are intended to trickle down to the State and local levels. Examples include the Whole Community concept, a greater use of social media, and a move back towards the All-Hazards Emergency Management approach. State your impressions of Administrator Fugate's tenure at FEMA, and give examples to support your statements.

All of the written work submitted must clearly be your own. Keep in mind transcription of material (copying), followed by parenthetical identification of the source with little or no original thought added does not constitute an adequate essay. You are expected to provide some evidence that at least a significant portion of the each essay is your own reaction to, thought about or evaluation of the subject of the essay, composed in your own words. Agreement, disagreement, examples, etc. are appropriate - as long as evidence of some thoughtful and pertinent independent thought, reaction, or response to the term or question is included.