AJ Gary, director of the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM), will retire on November 1 after a distinguished career spanning more than a decade of leadership in the agency. Gary, first appointed to the position in 2016 by then-Governor Asa Hutchinson and reappointed in 2023 by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, also serves as the state's Homeland Security Advisor.
Gary expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve, saying, "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. 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."
State officials praised Gary's tenure, highlighting his steady leadership in times of crisis. Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Col. Mike Hagar commended Gary's contributions, stating, "In an emergency, we need strong and steady leadership. AJ has always provided that. 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."
Governor Sanders also lauded Gary’s role in navigating emergencies: "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 career in public service spans 40 years. Prior to his time at ADEM, he served 28 years with the Conway Police Department, retiring as police chief. His leadership at ADEM will be remembered for meeting the challenges of disasters and emergencies with calm resolve and dedication to the safety of Arkansans.