LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — AJ Gary, the longtime director of the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM), has announced his retirement effective Nov. 1. Gary has overseen the agency for more than a decade, guiding the state’s emergency response efforts through numerous crises.
Gary was first appointed to the position in 2016 by then-Gov. Asa Hutchinson and was reappointed earlier this year by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders. He also served as the state’s homeland security advisor during his tenure.
“Serving the state of Arkansas as the Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Advisor has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” Gary said in a statement. “As I prepare to retire, I do so with full confidence that the ADEM team will continue to serve Arkansans with the same commitment and excellence they demonstrate every day.”
Gary’s career in public service spans 40 years, including 28 with the Conway Police Department, where he ultimately served as chief of police before moving into state-level leadership.
State officials praised Gary’s steady guidance and contributions. Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar highlighted his leadership during emergencies, stating, “AJ has seen Arkansas through challenging times with a clear head and steady hand. We are deeply appreciative of his service to the state and wish him well in his retirement.”
Gov. Sanders also commended his dedication, saying, “AJ has been instrumental in helping us deliver assistance to Arkansans when they need it most and stood with me on some of our toughest days. I’m grateful to AJ for his career in public service and wish him the best as he enters this well-earned next chapter.”
Gary’s leadership has been marked by efforts to improve disaster preparedness and streamline emergency response coordination statewide. His successor has not yet been announced.
Gary's impact on emergency management in Arkansas leaves a lasting legacy as the state prepares for new leadership in the critical agency.