The Virginia Emergency Management Association (VEMA) is a statewide organization that promotes and supports the twin goals of saving lives and protecting property during times of emergencies and disasters in Virginia. Members remark that one of the most valuable advantages of VEMA membership is the information exchange between colleagues across the commonwealth, and the opportunity to learn and benefit from one another. Members of VEMA are provided discounted symposium registration and a variety of training courses to enhance professional development. Additionally, members receive information on emergency management issues, have professional representation on legal or regulatory issues, a newsletter, and professional certifications. Virginia Emergency Management Symposium Sponsored by: Virginia Emergency Management Association & Virginia Department of Emergency Management The Virginia Emergency Management Symposium (VEMS) is an annual March event that alternates between Newport News and Roanoke. Co-sponsored by the Virginia Emergency Management Association and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, it provides a forum to discuss current trends and topics and share information about the latest practices, tools, and technology in emergency management and homeland security. Sessions encourage stakeholders at all levels of government, the private sector, public health and related professions to exchange ideas and collaborate to protect lives and property from disaster. The theme for 2025 is "Don’t Count on Luck" and was chosen as a reminder of the importance of preparedness to enable effective response and recovery efforts when incidents occur. Topic suggestions include creative planning, training, and exercises practices; integration with our military to enhance civil defense efforts; enhancing supply chain and critical infrastructure resiliency; and working closely with private sector partnerships to enhance resource management efforts.
