Sam DiGiovanna was a 40-year fire service veteran known for his deep commitment to firefighter leadership, wellness and mentoring. Known to many as “Chief Sam,” DiGiovanna started his career with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, and served as fire chief at the Monrovia Fire Department before moving into his role as chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale, California. Additionally, DiGiovanna served on the California State Firefighters Association Board of Directors and was a primary author for the California Fire Service Magazine and the CSFA Weekly Connection. DiGiovanna was also a contributor to FireRescue1 and served as a market ambassador and author for Lexipol. DiGiovanna died on Dec. 31, 2025.