City Manager Lori Ann Farrell Harrison presented Fire & Rescue Executive Administrator Lora Ross with the City Manager Leadership Award for the month of March.

“Lora is the glue that holds the fire team together,” Farrell Harrison said. “I know her colleagues and Chief Stefano hold her in high esteem and I appreciate all she does for Costa Mesa and the Fire & Rescue Department. Congrats to her for this well-earned award.”

Because of her reputation for professionalism, her strong work ethic and positive attitude, a colleague recruited her to come work for the City of Costa Mesa in 2004.

Ross is not only dedicated to her roles and responsibilities as the Executive Assistant for the Fire & Rescue Department, she is also a true friend to her colleagues; she genuinely cares for each and every one of them. One of her many notable achievements, of which she is most proud, is her early involvement in the department’s Administrative Intern program.

Ross was instrumental in the program’s development and the departments interns; she continues to manage and lead the interns who are working toward full-time positions within the fire service.

“Lora has continued to play an important role for us and the city, remaining strong and steady in her day-to-day and long term contributions to the department and the city, often under the radar,” said Chief Dan Stefano. “Her commitment, professionalism and loyalty throughout the pandemic have been greatly appreciated, remaining on-site to help support the efficiency and effectiveness of the department’s operation.”

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from National University.