Hall of Fame
Played women’s basketball and softball two years each at Ferrum from 1980-84 ? Helped Ferrum win the 1982 Virginia AIWA women’s basketball state title ? Worked two years at Danville Parks & Recreation after graduating from Ferrum ? Served as volunteer student assistant coach her junior and senior years at Ferrum ? Served two seasons as Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Averett University from 1985-87 ? Became a firefighter in 1987 and her first assignment as a fire fighter was at Fire Station #3 in Danville for 16 years, during which she became engaged in the community and developed a passion for fire prevention ? First female firefighter in city of Danville ? In 2004, was promoted to Assistant Fire Marshal ? In 2005, graduated Summa Cum Laude from Danville Community College with an Associate Degree in Fire Science ? In 2006, honored with Firefighter of the Year by American Legion Post 1097 ? in 2007, promoted to Chief Fire Marshal ? In 2010, graduated from Leadership Southside Class XVI ? Also in 2010, honored by Danville Community College as their Outstanding Alumni ? Holds certifications by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Fire Inspector, Fire Investigator, and Emergency Medical Technician ? Oversees all phases of the Fire Marshal’s Office, Inspections, Investigations, Public Education, and Prevention ? Chairs several committees within the department ? Known in the community for hosting a local television show “Fire Watch”, broadcast on the local government channel 10 River City TV ? During her 33 years of service with the Danville Fire Department Chief Irving has received numerous commendations, including a two-time recipient of the “Ruby Archie” Award for service, and excellence in leadership to the community ? Other achievements include honors as Bank of America Neighborhood Champion, and one of eight individuals chosen in 2019 as Community Strong Persons of the year by URW Community Federal Credit Union, and Showcase Magazine ? Serves on numerous boards throughout the community, such as Danville Pittsylvania Community Services where she serves as Chairperson, God’s Storehouse, Averett University Nursing Advisory Board, and Danville Community College Alumni Council past President ? Chief Irving is the first African American Chief Officer, and currently the highest-ranking African America officer in the fire department ?
