Danville, Virginia – For nearly four decades, Shelby Irving has been a trailblazer in the Danville Fire Department, rising through the ranks to become its first African American Chief Officer and currently its highest-ranking African American member. Her journey, beginning with a dare in 1986, embodies a commitment to service and a relentless spirit that has left an indelible mark on the community. Irving’s story is one of breaking barriers, overcoming skepticism, and dedicating a life to public safety, and her influence extends far beyond the firehouse, deeply woven into the fabric of Danville’s civic life.
Irving’s path wasn’t initially directed toward firefighting. A 1979 graduate of Tunstall High School, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Ferrum College in 1984, where she competed in basketball and softball. Following graduation, she spent two years with the Danville Parks & Recreation department before embarking on a 15-year coaching career at Averett University, leading basketball and softball teams. It was a friend’s challenge that ultimately steered her toward a different calling, prompting her to endeavor out for the then-male-dominated Danville Fire Department in 1987.
From Skepticism to Success: Breaking Barriers in the Fire Department
Initially hesitant, Irving almost didn’t attend the agility test, doubting a woman would be hired. But a follow-up call from the department and a defiant spirit, fueled by a dismissive comment from a male colleague – “you might wish to sit down until your turn comes because this is gonna be tough, and I just don’t think females can make it” – ignited a determination within her. Recalling the iconic Nike slogan, “Just Do It,” she persevered and became the first female firefighter in Danville’s history.
The early years weren’t without their challenges. Irving faced external skepticism, with questions raised about a woman’s place in a traditionally male profession. Whereas, she credits the support of her chief, captain, and fellow firefighters for easing her transition. She spent 16 years as a firefighter at Station Three on Industrial Avenue, steadily proving her capabilities and earning the respect of her colleagues.
Irving’s career progression was marked by consistent advancement. In 2004, she was promoted to Assistant Fire Marshal, followed by a promotion to Battalion Chief/Fire Marshal in 2007. Most recently, in 2022, she achieved the rank of Division Chief/Fire Marshal, a testament to her dedication and leadership. She has served in the Fire Marshal’s office for 19 years, and currently holds the position of Division Chief of Community Risk Reduction for the Danville Fire Department.
A Commitment to Community Beyond the Fire Service
Irving’s commitment to Danville extends far beyond her duties with the fire department. She holds numerous certifications from the State of Virginia, including Fire Investigator, Inspector, and Fire and Life Safety Officer. She is also known for hosting “Fire Watch,” a television program broadcast on local government channel 10, River City TV, aimed at educating the public about fire safety.
Her dedication has been consistently recognized through a series of awards and honors. In 1996, she was named “Outstanding Young Firefighter of the Year.” She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Danville Community College in 2005 with an associate degree in Fire Science and was inducted into their Honor Society. Further accolades followed, including “Firefighter of the Year” by American Legion Post 1097 in 2006, graduation from Leadership Southside in 2010, and the Ruby Archie Excellence in Leadership Award from Evince Magazine in 2012. In 2019, she received the Martin Luther King Jr. America’s Sunday Supper Award, and in 2020, she was recognized by both Omega Psi Phi Fraternity for Outstanding Service to the Danville Community and URW Credit Union with the Community Strong Person of the Year Award. In 2021, she was inducted into the Ferrum College Sports Hall of Fame, and in 2022, she was honored as the NAACP’s Woman of the Year. Most recently, in 2024, she received the Legend in the Community Award from Alpha PHI ALPHA Fraternity, INC.
A Multifaceted Leader and Dedicated Volunteer
Irving’s influence isn’t limited to firefighting and awards; she is a deeply engaged community leader. She has served on the boards of numerous organizations, including Danville Pittsylvania Community Services (as past Chairperson), God’s Storehouse (as Board President), Averett University’s Nursing Advisory Board, and the Danville Community College Alumni Council (as past President). She also contributes her time to the Hughes Memorial Foundation, the Community Improvement Council (Head Start), the Festival in the Park Board, and co-chairs the Harry Johnson Holiday Classic. Her involvement extends to the YMCA (as Board President), the Boys and Girls Club Safety Committee, and the Red Cross.
For the past 33 years, Irving has also served as Treasurer and/or Finance Secretary at Jones Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to both her faith and her community. Outside of her professional and volunteer perform, she enjoys attending sporting events, shopping, visiting flea markets, relaxing at her lake house, and spending time with her godson, JaShawn.
As she embarks on her 39th year with the Danville Fire Department, Irving continues to inspire and lead. Her story serves as a powerful example of perseverance, dedication, and the transformative impact one individual can have on a community. The Danville Fire Department is currently focused on community outreach programs and fire prevention education, with upcoming initiatives scheduled for the spring season, according to the department’s website.
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