The City of Alexandria is taking significant steps in strengthening its leadership team with two major appointments, according to recent announcements from the City Manager's office. Heather McGaffin has been appointed as the new Director of the Department of Emergency and Customer Communications, while Fatimah Dandashi has been selected as the Legislative Director, marking a strategic move to enhance the city's emergency response and legislative advocacy.
Heather McGaffin to Lead Emergency Communications
Heather McGaffin will assume her role as the Director of the Department of Emergency and Customer Communications on January 4, 2027. Her appointment follows a national search and was announced by City Manager James F. Parajon. McGaffin brings over two decades of experience in public safety communications, having previously served as the Director of the District of Columbia’s Office of Unified Communications. In this role, she managed the District’s 911 and 311 operations, showcasing her expertise in both frontline and strategic aspects of emergency communications.
City Manager Parajon expressed confidence in McGaffin's capabilities, stating, "Heather’s extensive experience across every level of public safety communications, from the dispatch console to the director’s office, makes her an outstanding choice to lead Alexandria’s emergency and customer communications." McGaffin is recognized nationally and internationally for her contributions to public safety communications and has been a keynote speaker at various conferences, including the British APCO conference in the United Kingdom.
Her leadership approach is described as people-first, focusing on operational excellence, workforce development, innovation, and accountability. McGaffin holds certifications as a Certified Public-Safety Executive (CPE) and Emergency Number Professional (ENP), and she currently chairs the National Capital Region 911 Directors Committee. Her appointment is expected to bolster Alexandria's emergency response capabilities significantly.
Fatimah Dandashi Named Legislative Director
In another strategic appointment, Fatimah Dandashi has been named the Legislative Director for the City of Alexandria. Her selection was announced on October 19, and she will begin her duties on October 26. Dandashi's role will involve overseeing the City’s intergovernmental affairs, advocating for state and federal funding, and working closely with the City Council to advance Alexandria’s legislative priorities.
Dandashi brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles in local and state government, including her work with Fairfax County and the Virginia Senate. Most recently, she served as the District Director for Virginia Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, where she connected constituents with state agencies and partner organizations. Her background also includes serving as a Casework and Policy Aide for Fairfax County Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk.
City Manager Parajon praised Dandashi's commitment to public service, stating, "Throughout her career, she has helped advance the legislative and policy priorities of localities while ensuring the voices of the residents are heard." Dandashi's appointment is seen as a critical step in ensuring that Alexandria's legislative goals are effectively advocated for in Richmond.
Dandashi was born and raised in Northern Virginia and holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Politics from George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government. Her deep roots in the region and her dedication to public service are expected to greatly benefit Alexandria's legislative efforts.
Community Events and Engagement
In related community news, Fairfax City is gearing up for Halloween with two major events. According to City News Articles, "Haunting for Candy" will take place in Old Town on October 25, and community trick-or-treating is scheduled for October 30 at various city locations. These events are designed to provide safe and fun experiences for families and children in the region.
As Alexandria continues to enhance its leadership team and community engagement, these developments signal a proactive approach to addressing both current and future challenges, ensuring that the city remains responsive to the needs of its residents.