Board of Directors

  • Laura Dyberg, Founder & President


    Laura is a prominent leader in wildfire prevention and community resilience in the Inland Empire. As President of the Mountain Rim Fire Safe Council (MRFSC) and founder of the Inland Empire Fire Safe Alliance (IEFSA), she has dedicated her career to safeguarding communities against wildfire risks and fostering collaboration across the region. As the driving force behind IEFSA, Laura has united fire safe councils throughout the Inland Empire since 1999, creating a collaborative network focused on promoting fire safety, managing grants, and serving as a comprehensive resource hub. Her ability to build partnerships with governmental agencies, environmental groups, and community stakeholders has been instrumental in advancing shared goals for wildfire mitigation and resilience. Through her visionary leadership, Laura continues to inspire action and innovation, ensuring the Inland Empire remains proactive in facing the challenges of wildfire threats while fostering a culture of safety and preparedness.

  • Justin Merino, Vice President


    Justin's career is defined by a unique blend of creativity and public service, with a portfolio spanning the creative landscape to the Fire/EMS field. As an Army veteran and wildland firefighter, he brings hands-on experience to emergency response and wildfire prevention. His expertise is further enhanced by his service as a USCG Medic and civilian EMT. Justin leads the High Desert Emergency Action Alliance and Desert Region Fire Safe, organizations that enhance community safety and wildfire resilience. As Strategic Operations Director for the Inland Empire Fire Safe Alliance (IEFSA), he spearheads initiatives to strengthen wildfire preparedness and foster resilience among San Bernardino & Riverside Counties communities. His multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to both innovation and safety. His leadership emphasizes the importance of inspiring and empowering communities to face the challenges of wildfire threats with confidence and creativity.

  • Terisa Bonito, Treasurer


    Terisa serves as the Treasurer of the Mountain Rim Fire Safe Council; in her role, Terisa is actively involved in initiatives such as Community Chipper Days, which help property owners create defensible space by chipping woody debris and slashing at their curbside. She also participates in public outreach events, providing residents with information on wildfire preparedness and safety measures. Terisa's commitment to community service extends beyond the Fire Safe Council. She has previously represented mountain communities west of Big Bear as an at-large member of the Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority (MARTA) board, contributing to improved transportation services in the region. Her dedication to enhancing public safety and community well-being is evident through her volunteer efforts and leadership roles.

  • Ellen Pollema, Co-Founder & Director


    Ellen is a dedicated advocate for wildfire prevention and community resilience. As the president of the Lytle Creek Fire Safe Council and a co-founder of the Inland Empire Fire Safe Alliance (IEFSA), she plays an instrumental role in promoting fire safety initiatives and fostering community preparedness in wildfire-prone areas. Ellen's work includes coordinating educational programs, implementing fire mitigation projects, and engaging residents in creating defensible spaces around their properties. Her leadership and commitment have been vital in reducing wildfire risks and enhancing safety across the region. Before focusing on her fire safe work, Ellen served as a Management Analyst II with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA). With a passion for protecting lives and preserving natural landscapes, Ellen continues to make a lasting impact through her fire safe efforts, ensuring a safer and more resilient future for her community.

  • Doug Williams, Director


    Doug is a dedicated fire safety advocate in San Bernardino County, California. As the president of the Wildwood Watchers Fire Safe Council in Yucaipa, he focuses on educating residents and promoting adherence to local fire protection ordinances to enhance community safety. Through his involvement with the Firewise Community program, Doug collaborates with local, state, and federal agencies to implement wildfire risk assessments and develop strategies that reduce the potential impact of wildfires. His efforts include organizing community awareness programs and encouraging the creation of defensible spaces around properties. Doug's commitment to fire prevention and community resilience has been instrumental in establishing a strong wildfire-safe environment in Yucaipa and the surrounding areas. His leadership and dedication continue to inspire collective action towards safeguarding lives and properties from the threat of wildfires.

  • Susan Frommer, Director


    Susan is the President of the Southwest Riverside County Fire Safe Council. In this role, she leads initiatives to mobilize residents, organizations, and agencies in making their homes and properties more fire-safe. Under Susan's leadership, the council has implemented various programs, including community meetings with fire experts, educational workshops, and neighborhood brush collection and chipping events. These efforts aim to enhance community disaster planning and promote fire safety awareness. She has presented updates on the California Insurance Commissioner's task force, discussing efforts and proposed legislation related to wildfire risk reduction and insurance matters. Susan's commitment to exploring innovative fire prevention methods is evident through her involvement in pilot programs. She has supported the application of long-lasting fire retardants, such as Phos-Chek Fortify, to treat fire-prone areas, aiming to prevent wildfires before they start.

  • Jessica Ozuna, Director


    Jessica is a dedicated community leader serving as the Chair of the East Little Mountain Fire Safe Council, a local organization committed to wildfire prevention and safety education in the Inland Empire. Under her leadership, the council has actively engaged in initiatives to protect the community from wildfire threats. Jessica led a live demonstration of a unique new fire chemistry designed to protect homes, showcasing her commitment to innovative fire prevention strategies. Jessica's leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among residents, local agencies, and neighboring Fire Safe Councils, enhancing the community's resilience against wildfires. Her dedication to fire safety and community engagement continues to make a significant impact in the East Little Mountain area.