About

Leadership

Acting Director, National Incident Response Unit
Sharon Peyus

Ms. Peyus joined ICE in October 2003. The National Incident Response Unit (NIRU) works to ensure an efficient and coordinated response that addresses preparedness, prevention, management response, and recovery. NIRU develops, enhances and oversees programs, policies and initiatives to support and establish uniformity of ICE emergency preparedness, management and response efforts and continuity of operations planning, including response to unexpected contingencies, such as avian and pandemic influenza.

Ms. Peyus began her emergency management career in the early 1970’s, working as a civil servant with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services in Sacramento, CA.

Prior to joining ICE, Ms. Peyus worked in the private industry and academia. Following a career with Charles Schwab and Co., Inc., as vice president and branch manager, she left the brokerage industry to complete graduate school.

Ms. Peyus has been recognized for her outstanding service and management in leading change. For her critical role in leading the ICE Operations Center during the agency’s response to Hurricane Katrina and the crisis in New Orleans, she received a Distinguished Service Award.

Ms. Peyus received her Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Sacramento. In addition, she holds a Master’s degree (ED.M) from Harvard Graduate School of Education and is a graduate of the Federal Executive Institute (FEI) and the Naval Postgraduate School, Executive Leaders Program.