Laura Knapp officially GR's fire chief

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Laura Knapp is the new Grand Rapids fire chief, effective Tuesday.

She was appointed acting chief after John VanSolkema announced his retirement in June. He served in the department for 35 years.

Knapp is the first female fire chief in the city's history.

She has been with the fire department since 1984. She earned her position in the first recruit class of firefighters that included female candidates, and has distinguished herself with strong performance throughout her career, says a news release.

Knapp's career path includes holding the title of battalion chief in 1999 and deputy chief in 2004.

"I am honored and humbled to accept this appointment. The Grand Rapids Fire Department is comprised of men and women who are dedicated to serving their community with commitment, courage and compassion. I have had the privilege to work for the Grand Rapids Fire Department my entire career and work side by side with all of the members of this department. I will continue to do my very best for the members of this department and the citizens of Grand Rapids as we face the challenges ahead," Knapp said.

"I am proud of the accomplishments of Chief Knapp and confident that she will continue to provide effective leadership for the men and women of our fire department," said Grand Rapids City Manager Greg Sundstrom.

Knapp earned a Bachelor's degree in business administration from Adrian College where she also was a three-sport athlete and an academic All-American in basketball during her sophomore year. She was inducted into the Adrian College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1996, earned the fire department's Medal of Merit in 2005, and was a Grand Rapids YWCA Tribute Award winner in 2007.