Show-Me State Times

Shawn Steadman and Jesse A. Scott, both affiliated with Saint Louis University's emergency management program, were recently recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. On May 2, they received the Auxiliary Achievement Award during the Capt. Niels P. Thomsen Innovation Awards ceremony.

The award was given to a team from the Coast Guard's District 8, which includes Steadman and Scott, for their efforts in transforming emergency management practices within the district. Scott Duellman, interim dean of SLU's School for Professional Studies, praised their work: “Steadman and Scott have demonstrated their innovative nature in both the classroom and in emergency situations.”

According to the Coast Guard, this recognition is due to initiatives led by Commodore Richard L. Lawrence and Steadman that have enhanced operational capabilities in crisis situations such as hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scott contributed significantly by integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) into emergency management operations, providing critical real-time data that improved decision-making processes. Meanwhile, Steadman managed organizational structures for incident management using technological tools like GIS.

Steadman remarked on the award's significance: “This prestigious award recognizes our capabilities being taught to Saint Louis University students in the Emergency Management program.” With over 30 years of volunteer service with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, Steadman's career spans various roles across academia, government, and consulting.

Scott brings a diverse background combining military experience with expertise in environmental sciences. He has served with different branches of the military and currently teaches GIS at SLU.

SLU offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management, notable for being the only undergraduate program of its kind at a Jesuit university in the United States. The program prepares students for careers across sectors recognized by agencies like FEMA.