Welcome and Opening Remarks

Dr. Vereen Barton, Assistant Chief, Director of Recruiting, Criminal Investigation, and the Office of Accountability and Oversight  
Maryland-National Capital Park Police 

Yasmin Brown, Assistant Chief, Patrol Services 
Maryland-National Capital Park Police 

Bridging the Divide: Building Trust Through Community Partnerships

In this powerful and practical keynote, Major Latricia Allen shares hard-earned insights on how law enforcement and communities can work together to build trust, reduce crime, and foster lasting change. Gain a deeper understanding of what authentic community partnership looks like in action, from effective communication and transparency to shared accountability and collaboration. This is a must-hear message for anyone committed to safer, stronger, and more united communities. 

Major Latricia Allen
Commander – Bureau of Investigative Services
St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department 

Understanding and Relating All Generations

• Explore what today’s officers value: wellness, balance, and transparent growth paths 
• Unpack the tension between tenure and promotion, and how to lead through resentment and misalignment 
• Learn practical strategies for managing and motivating seasoned professionals who feel overlooked 

Moderator:
Mike Boward, Sergeant, Personnel and Training Unit
Fort Collins Police Department

Shandra Mutchie, Recruitment/Training Coordinator
Utah Department of Corrections

Tanya Meisenholder, Ph.D.
NYU Policing Project 
Former Deputy Commissioner (NYPD)

Networking Break

Enjoy snacks and refreshments while mingling with other attendees, included in your registration! 

Sample Menu (subject to change): 
Coffee (regular & decaf), hot tea, assorted soft drinks, sparkling water, seasonal fruit salad, and soft pretzels with grain mustard

Making Mental Health a Priority: Thriving in Tough Environments

• Get strategies for navigating difficult personalities, retaliation, and isolation in the workplace 
• Understand how mental health directly impacts retention and how to lead yourself and others through challenging dynamics 
• Learn how to protect yourself and new officers from toxic influences and build a culture of support and success 

Katie Carlson, Director of Wellness Initiatives
Marion County Sheriff’s Office

Na’Shayla Nelson, PhD, Assistant Chief of Police 
Portsmouth Police Department 

Life After Law Enforcement: Planning Your Next Chapter

• Learn how to identify and translate your policing skills into new careers and opportunities 
• Build a roadmap for life after the badge, whether you're five years out or five months away 
• Gain clarity, confidence, and practical tools to set yourself up for long-term success 

Moderator:
Yasmin Brown, Assistant Chief, Patrol Services 
Maryland-National Capital Park Police

Nikki Woodrow, Sergeant, Pre-Employment and Recruiting
Wichita Police Department

Malika Knox
Retired Corporal – Prince George’s County Police Department

Tiatte Day
Retired Major – Prince George’s Conty Police Department

Roundtable Discussions – Choose Your Own Adventure!

AI and Other Trends: Navigating the Future of Work
Explore the latest AI advancements and their impact on the workplace. Discuss how AI is reshaping industries, enhancing productivity, and the ethical considerations we must address moving forward.

Facilitator: Shandra Mutchie, Recruitment/Training Coordinator, Utah Department of Corrections

Mastering Difficult Conversations and Political Negotiations
Learn practical strategies for engaging in tough conversations and navigating political challenges with tact, empathy, and effectiveness in professional settings.

Facilitator: Yasmin Brown, Assistant Chief, Patrol Services, Maryland-National Capital Park Police 

Mentorship That Matters: Building Authentic and Reciprocal Relationships
Dive into the dynamics of mentorship beyond the workplace. Understand how honesty, transparency, and mutual respect create powerful mentor-mentee partnerships that support both personal and professional growth.

Facilitator: Na’Shayla Nelson, PhD, Assistant Chief of Police, Portsmouth Police Department  

Evolving Hiring Practices for a Changing Society
Examine how departments are adapting hiring standards to reflect societal shifts and diverse applicant pools.

Facilitator: Nikki Woodrow, Sergeant, Pre-Employment and Recruiting, Wichita Police Department 

Demystifying Promotion: Perspectives from Both Sides
Gain insight into the promotional process through candid discussions and experience sharing, highlighting pathways to advancement and transparency in career growth.

Facilitator: Marvin (Ben) Haiman, Executive Director, University of Virginia Center for Public Safety and Justice 

Health & Wellness: What Women in Policing Need Most
Learn strategies to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being on and off the job.

Facilitator: Tracie Keesee, Associate Professor of Public Safety and Justice, University of Virginia

Closing Remarks

Welcome Cocktail Reception

Enjoy a hosted premium bar with craft cocktails, premium beer and wine, as well as non-alcoholic beer, soft drinks, and sparkling water. A selection of bite sized hors d'oeuvres, both hot and cold, will complement your drink – all included in your registration!