Courtesy photo
Suzanna Semerjian Sworn in as CTVFD Firefighter
Richard Gentles, President CTVFD
Suzanna Semerjian was recently sworn in as the newest member of the Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department (CTVFD). She joins Lina Sriji and Olivia Bary as the third fully certified female member of the CTVFD.
Suzanna joined the CTVFD junior firefighters’ program in April 2021 while attending Chatham High School. She earned her Fire 1 certification from Morris County Fire Academy in the summer of 2022. Suzanna currently attends the University of Toronto and is pursuing a double major in Human Biology and Psychology
“I’m honored to be working with all of these great people and have this amazing opportunity to connect with the community,” Suzanna shared after being sworn in. “Firefighting is something I never thought I’d find myself doing, but I’m so happy I am. What started as a simple volunteer opportunity ended up being so much more, and I’m grateful to all the members who supported me as I grew and learned about the job.”
“It’s exciting and encouraging to see Suzanna sworn in as our newest member,” said CTVFD Chief Matthew Chase. “Her decision to volunteer as a firefighter reflects her commitment to serve and protect our community. We applaud Suzanna for her achievement and wanting to save lives and provide support to others during the scariest of situations. CTVFD President Richard Gentles shared, “All are welcome. CTVFD members come from all walks of life and experiences.” Anyone wanting more information about joining the Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department should visit ctfd.org or email membership@ctfd.org.
About the Chatham Township Volunteer Fire Department
Established in 1925, the Department is comprised entirely of volunteer members including 25 active firefighters, junior firefighters and associate members providing services 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. The department operates its headquarters on River Road and a second station on Southern Boulevard and responds to approximately 300 calls each year, both within Chatham Township and in the form of mutual aid to departments in neighboring communities.
