Date of Award
12-2025
Degree Type
Dissertation-Restricted
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Degree Program
Urban Studies
Department
Planning and Urban Studies
Major Professor
Dr. Michelle Thompson
Second Advisor
Dr. Monica Farris
Third Advisor
Dr. Ryan Seidemann
Abstract
The field of emergency management plays a vital role in safeguarding communities and individuals during times of crisis. Diversity in the emergency management workforce helps build trust and credibility within the communities it serves. With increased trust among the responders and efforts, there is an increased likelihood of project success. For instance, when individuals believe people in positions of authority resemble them, they are more likely to trust and cooperate with emergency management efforts. This trust fosters stronger community engagement, empowering individuals to participate actively in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, enhancing success. By employing a diverse workforce, emergency management agencies can better understand and address these specific needs. For instance, bilingual professionals can bridge language barriers, while those with cultural knowledge can ensure culturally sensitive responses. Furthermore, diverse teams often introduce fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, enabling agencies to stay ahead of emerging risks and develop cutting-edge strategies for disaster management.
However, data shows that emergency management professionals throughout the nation consist mostly of White males who typically have engaged in post-secondary education and hold secure, well-paying jobs with benefits. Put differently, emergency management professionals do not always reflect the actual makeup of their communities, a factor that can be a significant barrier to overall resilience. A lack of diversity in the emergency management sector results in an inaccurate and culturally biased understanding of people’s needs, creating a significant barrier to community resilience. This equity divide has led to enhanced levels of distrust and inequitable inclusion within many communities.
Recommended Citation
ANTOINE, MICHAEL M., "Emergency Management Workforce Diversity: Its Impact on Community Resilience and Disaster Outcomes" (2025). University of New Orleans Theses and Dissertations. 3326.
https://scholarworks.uno.edu/td/3326
Rights
The University of New Orleans and its agents retain the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible this dissertation or thesis in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The author retains all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis or dissertation.