SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Diya TV) — Nancy Ward is no longer California’s top emergency management official. She has quietly stepped down as director of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, also known as Cal OES. Gov. Gavin Newsom is now searching for a new leader to oversee the state’s emergency response efforts.
Ward’s departure was not announced publicly by the governor’s office. Her exit became known on Wednesday after KCRA 3 confirmed she had left the role. A spokesperson later said Ward retired after serving about two years in the position. The spokesperson said the move was planned and coordinated closely with the governor’s office.
Ward made history as the first woman to lead Cal OES. During her tenure, she guided the agency through major wildfires, floods, and other natural disasters. Her leadership placed her at the center of California’s emergency management system, which responds to crises affecting millions of residents.
The governor’s office said Ward agreed to stay on during a transition period. She will continue to support Cal OES as a retired annuitant. This role allows her to assist the agency while a permanent successor is chosen. Ward was last publicly quoted in a Cal OES press release on Dec. 11. At the time, California was helping Washington state respond to severe flooding.
Gov. Newsom’s office praised Ward’s long public service and leadership. A spokesperson described her as a steady and compassionate leader during some of the state’s largest disasters.
“Director Nancy Ward has been a steady hand and a compassionate leader through some of California’s largest disasters,” the spokesperson said. “Her decades of service have made our state stronger, safer, and more resilient.”
The statement added that the governor is grateful for her dedication and wishes her well in retirement. The governor’s office did not provide further details about the timing of her departure or the reasons behind it.
The Cal OES website now lists Christina Curry as the agency’s acting director. Curry will oversee day-to-day operations while the search for a permanent director continues.
Cal OES plays a critical role in coordinating California’s response to emergencies. The agency works with local, state, federal, and tribal partners. It manages disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts across the state. Leadership changes at Cal OES often draw attention because California faces frequent emergencies. Wildfires, drought, floods, earthquakes, and heat waves regularly test the state’s response systems.
Newsom’s office said a wide-ranging search for a new Cal OES director is underway. Officials did not release a timeline for naming a successor. The next director will inherit a demanding role with high public visibility. The position requires close coordination with first responders, local governments, and federal agencies. The director also advises the governor during emergencies and helps guide long-term planning efforts.
California’s emergency management system remains active year-round. State officials continue to prepare for wildfire season and extreme weather events. The leadership transition comes as climate-driven disasters grow more frequent and severe. Ward brought decades of experience to Cal OES. Her career in emergency management included leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels. Colleagues often credited her with improving coordination and communication during disasters.
Her tenure included some of the most challenging periods in recent state history. California faced record-breaking wildfire seasons and major storms during her time as director. As the state looks ahead, officials say continuity remains a priority. Ward’s temporary return during the transition aims to ensure stability and support for ongoing operations.
For now, Christina Curry leads Cal OES as acting director. The governor’s office continues its search for a permanent replacement. The next leader will shape how California prepares for and responds to future emergencies.
