Sue Pivetta

Sue Pivetta's professional journey is a testament to passion for the work of 9-1-1. Starting out as a graveyard dispatcher in a small agency in 1976, Sue quickly rose through the ranks as the agency evolved into a multi-jurisdictional Comm Center.

Sue's voyage as a new working supervisor was like navigating a turbulent sea without a compass, relying solely on her ADHD fueled creativity, energy, and resilience to craft a lighthouse of support for her team in the form of a union. Sue also wrote the first SOP - even as the harsh red ink of administration threatened to strike down her endeavors.

After 11 years of service on 9-1-1 lines, Sue became frustrated with the turnover of new hires (hire 5 lose 7). So, while complaining at a dinner with non public safety friends, they innocently suggested she approach a local vocational to start training people in 9-1-1. Thus, creating the first 9-1-1 career program in the nation. Sue applied for the teaching job and was hired (by a very narrow margin).

Reluctantly leaving 9-1-1, she became the first 9-1-1 college instructor in the nation. True to form, quite by accident in her first week teaching, Sue became the president of the college teachers’ union. Her advocacy for the rights of her fellow instructors showcased her commitment to creating positive change.

Her transition to academia was the key that unlocked a vast library of opportunities, like a door opening to a room filled with books just waiting to be written, so of course she wrote them. Her workshops at APCO and NENA provided a vehicle for inspiring and entertaining others. Her network expanded nationally and internationally, leading to consulting gigs and valuable connections with industry professionals in Argentina, South Africa, Korea, Costa Rica and Canada.

From her work with NENA to her personal endeavors in education, community dispute resolution, and artistic collaboration, Sue has shown her commitment to making a difference in the world. Her willingness to step up and take on new challenges, from teaching creativity to women in prisons to managing her own business, showcases her tireless dedication to leadership.

With a heart full of humility and a voice that exudes strength, Sue reminds her colleagues of their interconnectedness and interdependence. Like angels with one wing, she emphasizes the importance of unity and collaboration to reach new heights of success and impact. Her profound love, gratitude and respect for those on the 9-1-1 frontlines, answering the call day in and day out, as well as those serving in leadership positions at 9-1-1, is evident in every word she writes.