AUGUSTA, Ga. – The City of Augusta has announced the appointment of Kymber Keaton, M.S. EM, as the new director of the Augusta-Richmond County Emergency Management Agency.

In her new role, Keaton will be responsible for managing the county’s emergency readiness, disaster response, mitigation strategies, training initiatives, and community engagement. She will collaborate with partners at the local, state, and federal levels to ensure comprehensive preparedness.

“I am thrilled to begin my work with Augusta-Richmond County,” expressed Keaton. “This community left a profound impact on me during Hurricane Helene, and the resilience I observed here has remained with me. When the chance to join Augusta presented itself, it felt like the perfect opportunity to contribute and lead. I aim to boost preparedness and make sure every resident feels informed, supported, and prepared for any emergency.”

City officials highlighted Keaton’s extensive experience, noting her more than ten years of “high-level” expertise in emergency management, disaster response, public safety, and homeland security. Her previous roles include positions with the United States Air Force, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, and the White House Operations Center.