Communications interoperability, the important role of first-responders, and federal-state-local information sharing became areas where Arizona advanced under Governor Napolitano's leadership.   As a technology-aware leader of a border state, she has developed a reputation for seeking out and deploying technological solutions that enhance mission effectiveness for law enforcement, border security, and first responders throughout the state.

The perspectives and lessons learned from these firsthand experiences can only elevate the effectiveness of the partnership between the public and the private sector in achieving the homeland security mission.   Whether it is because industry owns nearly all of our economic assets, is the source of technology and innovative security products, or itself is often on the front-lines of emergency response and ensuring lawful immigration - the new leadership at DHS should seek to  strengthen the relationship with the private sector while also holding industry accountable for delivering results.

This is what industry wants too.  Our Council was conceived on the premise that industry would only be able to raise our effectiveness once we know more about the needs.  The transparency achieved by sharing DHS strategies, programs, plans, budgets - coupled with strengthening the contracting corps - helped move the ball forward but there is still a long way to the goal line.  Likewise, industry has sought out ways to become better aligned both in terms of our own preparedness but also through our investments in R&D and expertise across both the threat spectrum and the mission domains.  Today, our Council and our aligned members are more engaged with small business - both in terms of collaboration, but more importantly, by helping them better prepare themselves through our partnership with the American Red Cross.

The opportunity and optimism we share with the new Administration will only be fulfilled through a greater sense of partnership and mutual accountability.  The same old fear and loathing often directed by both sides at the other, combined with misunderstood or poorly conceived rules of engagement between the sectors and a skeptical media, can only be overcome through accountable leadership and delivery of results by both sides.

Change is good.

I have had the honor to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Homeland Security and Defense Business Council now for four consecutive terms.  I can't express enough how much I have enjoyed working with our members and our important partners in the government.  Thank you for your support in helping make this organization successful.

I especially thank the men and women in DHS and the other federal agencies that serve in this vital mission.  I have witnessed many of your sacrifices on our behalf as citizens and we owe you a debt of gratitude.  Thank you to Secretary Michael Chertoff for your leadership in strengthening DHS across many of its roles.  Madam Secretary, you have a tough act to follow and we extend our sincere best wishes and our determination to help you achieve success in your new role.