Alexandria, VA – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced two appointments to the FirstNet Board of Directors: Karima Holmes, Director of the Office of Unified Communications in Washington, DC, and Chief Matt Slinkard, Executive Assistant Chief of Police for Houston, TX. Holmes and Slinkard replace outgoing members Teri Takai and Richard Ross. Ms. Holmes will be the first FirstNet Board member who serves as director of an emergency communications center.

“We look forward to working with the newly-constituted board, and we extend our appreciation to Teri Takai and Richard Ross for their contributions to FirstNet,” APCO Executive Director and CEO Derek K. Poarch said. “Chief Slinkard will continue the valuable representation of law enforcement on the Board, and we are confident Director Holmes will bring a unique perspective to FirstNet as the leader of a major metropolitan 9-1-1 center. As the emergency communications landscape continues to evolve, her voice as an experienced and well-respected public safety communications professional will be critical.”