ETAMU Faculty to Keynote Fire Leadership Challenge 2025

Dr. Brandy Runyan and Hussien Jabai, esteemed faculty members at East Texas A&M University in the Department of Health and Human Performance, have been invited to serve as keynote speakers at Fire Leadership Challenge 2025, one of the nation's premier conferences for fire service leadership, taking place Oct. 20-24 in Keystone, Colorado. 

Their keynote session, titled “Stronger Every Shift: Athlete-Inspired Mental Wellness for Firefighters,” will introduce a groundbreaking approach to mental wellness by applying principles traditionally used in elite athlete performance psychology to the fire service. 

This dynamic and empowering keynote is designed to equip fire service leaders with the mindset and tools needed to excel in one of the world's most physically and emotionally demanding professions. Runyan and Jabai will guide attendees through the essential connections between mental, physical, emotional, spiritual and occupational wellness—emphasizing how these elements collectively sustain peak performance and long-term health. 

The presentation will address the unique stressors faced by firefighters and officers, including operational fatigue, leadership pressure and the challenges of maintaining personal resilience in high-stakes environments. Attendees will leave with a practical “mental toolbox” filled with strategies to enhance their personal wellness, support the health of their teams and lead with clarity and purpose. 

“We're honored to bring this conversation to the fire service community,” said Dr. Runyan. “Just like professional athletes, firefighters are under constant pressure to perform. Our goal is to offer them the same level of support, strategy and strength we provide to champions.” 

Fire Leadership Challenge 2025 brings together fire chiefs, officers and leaders from across the country to explore the latest in leadership, operations and wellness. The event is hosted annually by the Colorado State Fire Chiefs and recognized as a leading platform for advancing innovation and excellence in fire service leadership. 

Featured Photo: Dr. Brandy Runyan and Hussien Jabai | Brandy Runyan