LILLIAN BONSIGNORE
A trailblazing leader, public servant, and passionate advocate.
A career defined by service, resilience, and breaking barriers.
Chief Lillian Bonsignore is a retired, 31-year veteran of the Fire Department of New York (“FDNY”) who served as the Chief of EMS Operations from 2019-2022 during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Lillian Bonsignore is:
The highest-ranking uniformed female in FDNY history
The first female to achieve a 4-star rank in FDNY history
The first openly LGBTQ+ Chief of EMS Operations
During her tenure, Lillian Bonsignore led one of the largest emergency medical systems in the world, guiding thousands of first responders through some of New York City’s most challenging crises.
Now retired with over three decades worth of leadership, Lillian has dedicated herself to mentoring the next generation, empowering women, the LGBTQ+ community, and professionals across industries to break glass ceilings, embrace resilience, and lead with confidence. Her expertise goes far beyond emergency response - she speaks on leadership, mentorship, mental strength, and overcoming obstacles, inspiring audiences to push past limitations and step into their full potential.
Meet the Woman Who Changed the Face of Leadership in EMS
Defined by historic leadership in public service, Get an inside look at the career of Lillian Bonsignore and her rise to making history in becoming the first woman and first openly LGBTQ+ Chief of EMS in New York City.
“I didn’t grow up with much, but I found my strength through perseverance and the people who believed in me. Now, I share my story to show that no matter who you are or where you start, you have the power to lead, to grow, and to make history.”
- Lillian Bonsignore
Lillian’s Expertise Includes:
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Leadership & Breaking Barriers
Inspiring leaders to rise with courage, challenge norms, and lead with impact in any environment.
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Women’s Empowerment
Equipping women with tools to lead boldly, navigate bias, and thrive in high-pressure careers.
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Clarity Through Crisis
Showcasing how the same mental/organizational tools used during 9/11, COVID, and citywide disasters can guide you through your own moments of chaos.
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Emergency Response & Public Safety
Offering insights from 30+ years in EMS to improve leadership, training, and public health outcomes.
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Resilience & Mental Strength
Sharing hard-earned lessons on staying grounded, strong, and purpose-driven through adversity
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Motivation & Personal Growth
Helping others turn challenges into growth and align their purpose with personal and professional success.
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LGBTQ+ Empowerment & Advocacy
Advocating for authenticity, visibility, and inclusion in leadership and the workplace.
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Effective Team Leading
How to inspire, support, and drive results as a team leader in high-stakes environments.
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The Power of Emotional Intelligence
How empathy, awareness, and communication fuel effective teams.
