WVU Police Department Emergency Management Coordinator Jim Bittner has received the Certified Emergency Manager credential, the highest honor of professional achievement available from the International Association of Emergency Managers.
The designation is currently held by 2,454 individuals in the emergency management profession, which represents professionals whose goals are saving lives and protecting property and the environment during emergencies and disasters.
“Jim exemplifies the dedication and commitment we strive for at WVU,” UPD Chief Sherry St. Clair said. “This designation is a testament to his outstanding service and efforts to keeping our campus safe.”
Bittner qualified as CEM® by submitting an extensive credentials package giving personal and professional background achievements and a written examination.
Jon Fessler, certification commission chair, said Bittner demonstrated a high level of competence and ethical fitness for emergency management, and UPD is to be commended for having a professional of this caliber on staff.
A native of Uniontown, Bittner always had a passion for emergency response, and after spending 26 years working in his hometown just across the state line from Morgantown, he joined UPD last fall.
One of his biggest projects is to maintain emergency plans to ensure the safety of students, faculty and staff.
To better prepare for a campus incident, he is committed to ensuring UPD maintains its strong working relationships with emergency personnel throughout Monongalia County, including local police officers, fire departments and emergency medical services.