2nd Annual - Leading Without a Badge Summit 2026

General Robert B. Neller served as the 37th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps from September 2015 to July 2019.

He retired from active duty in 2019. A native of East Lansing, Michigan, Neller graduated from the University of Virginia in 1975 with a degree in history and speech communication. He later earned a master’s degree from Pepperdine University in human resources management. After graduating from Virginia, Neller went directly into the Marine Corps via the Platoon Leader Class.

A career Infantry Officer, Neller has commanded from Platoon through Service Component HQs. He has been assigned as a General Officer in each of the three USMC active infantry Divisions and commanded the 3rd Marine Division. He is a joint qualified officer having served in Europe at SHAPE as a NATO staff officer and as the J3/COO of the Joint Staff. Operationally, Neller participated in Operation Just Cause in Panama, Operation Restore Hope in Somalia, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In OIF 05-07 during 2006, he served as the Deputy Commanding General for Multi-National Force West in Iraq’s Anbar Province.

Upon retirement, Neller moved to the Austin, Texas area where he is involved in consulting, teaching, motivational speaking and serving as the Chairman of the Board of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. One of his primary consulting activities has been in the training of law enforcement personnel in their response to an active shooter situation and other challenging scenarios facing today’s law enforcement personnel. To improve police performance, he has become an advocate of virtual reality simulation to enhance and reinforce police training and policies, especially the de-escalation of a situation resulting in a non-kinetic outcome.

Dr. Ajasha Long is a licensed psychologist specializing in high-stress roles and life transitions, with deep expertise in both law enforcement and perinatal mental health. She currently serves as the police psychologist for the Mesa Police Department, where she provides clinical support, crisis intervention, and advises on policies that promote psychological resilience across the organization.

Dr. Long is also the founder and owner of Set Apart Psychological Resource and Consultation, a practice dedicated to helping high-achieving individuals navigate a wide range of life transitions. Her services support those facing the psychological demands of leadership, career change, parenting, trauma recovery, and performance pressure—with particular focus on law enforcement and perinatal mental health.

With a strong foundation in trauma-informed care and EMDR, Dr. Long helps her clients process trauma, develop stabilization skills, and build emotional resilience. She brings a grounded, practical, and empowering approach to every interaction—tailored to meet the unique needs of those who carry significant personal and professional responsibility.

In addition to her clinical work, she designs and facilitates workshops on workplace anxiety, imposter mindset, and resilience. Her programming resonates in high-stakes environments, where internal pressure and perfectionism can quietly erode well-being.

Dr. Long is passionate about creating psychologically safe spaces where growth is possible, especially for those used to being the one others rely on. She is licensed to practice psychology in Arizona, Ohio, and Florida, and welcomes opportunities to collaborate on an individual or organizational level.

Amy J. Litwin is an attorney with more than two decades of public sector experience in criminal justice, professional discipline, policing best practices, and victim advocacy. She currently serves as Chief of Staff for the Office of Policing Strategy and Innovation within the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, supporting statewide law enforcement reform focused on training, leadership, officer wellness, and public trust.

Previously, Ms. Litwin served as Deputy Commissioner of the Department Advocate’s Office at the New York City Police Department, where she led disciplinary prosecutions, coordinated with oversight bodies, and advised executive leadership. She began her career as a prosecutor with the Bronx District Attorney’s Office, later serving as Chief of the Domestic Violence Bureau, and then Counsel to the Special Victims Division. In these roles, she directed multidisciplinary teams and major initiatives in victim response, training, and interagency collaboration, while serving on the office’s Professional Responsibility Tribunal, ensuring prosecutorial ethics and accountability.

Biography Pending

Elizabeth Wiltrout is the Manager of the Criminal Justice Information Division (CJID) for the Mesa Police Department—one of the largest law enforcement agencies in Arizona—serving a community of more than half a million residents. She leads a 97-member civilian division responsible for critical and high-liability public safety functions, including national reporting compliance, data integrity, public records and digital media dissemination, and risk management.

Since assuming division leadership in 2019, she has strengthened workforce stability, expanded resources, and modernized technology to enhance transparency and efficiency. Her 18-year career with the City of Mesa includes leadership roles in the Crime Scene Unit, Chief’s Office Administration, Records, and Risk Management.

Elizabeth holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor’s in Justice Studies from Arizona State University. She also serves as Chair of the VersaWest User Group Board, advancing regional collaboration in records management innovation.

Mark Heller is Deputy Commissioner of the Office of Crime Analysis & Strategic Partnerships at the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) and is responsible for the strategic oversight of the network of 11 crime analysis centers across New York State, as well as developing and cultivating relationships across the law enforcement and crime analysis communities.  Mark has more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, as well as a broad range of experience in public safety training, information technology, and program management across a variety of New York State agencies and in the private sector.  He has an associate’s degree in criminal justice, a bachelor’s degree in management of information technology, and a master’s degree in public administration from Marist University.

With 26 years of dedicated service, Chief James “Jay” Gerace is the current Chief of Police for the Town of Colonie.  His expertise in developing and delivering impactful police training programs is evident through his presentations at national conferences and the National Academy of Sciences in Washington D.C.  A graduate of the FBI National Academy (Session 282), Chief Gerace has shared his insights through published work in prestigious journals including the International Association of Chiefs of Police (AICP) and the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin.

Capital Region Crime Analysis Center Assistant Director Ryan Meagher has worked at the Center since 2015 in a variety of roles, first as a DOCCS/parole analyst, then as a group dispute analyst 2017-2019 and later as a lead crime analyst / IT coordinator. Supporting the Center's Real Time Crime Services for many years, Meagher has had the opportunity to become involved in hundreds of cases with law enforcement partners and has achieved NYS level II crime analyst certification.

Todd Weiss is the Director of the Capital Region Crime Analysis Center overseeing the operations of crime analysis and real-time service teams that provide crime analysis, intelligence, information and on-demand, real-time services to law enforcement as they respond, investigate and otherwise prevent criminal activity within the Capital Region.  Prior to his current role, Todd Weiss served over 23 years with the Colonie Police Department, retiring as a lieutenant in 2023.  

With 26 years of dedicated service, Chief James “Jay” Gerace is the current Chief of Police for the Town of Colonie.  His expertise in developing and delivering impactful police training programs is evident through his presentations at national conferences and the National Academy of Sciences in Washington D.C.  A graduate of the FBI National Academy (Session 282), Chief Gerace has shared his insights through published work in prestigious journals including the International Association of Chiefs of Police (AICP) and the FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin.

Biography Pending

Jim Cook is an accomplished law enforcement executive with over 20 years of experience in public safety and transit policing. Currently serving as Assistant Chief of Police for the Amtrak Police Department, he oversees comprehensive operations protecting more than 34 million passengers annually across Amtrak's extensive network spanning 46 states and three Canadian provinces.

Chief Cook holds a Master of Arts in National Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration. His leadership training includes prestigious programs such as the Senior Management Institute for Police (PERF) and the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. He formerly served as the Intelligence Sub-Committee Chair of the Surface Transportation Security Advisory Committee (STSAC) and holds professional memberships in several major law enforcement associations.

Jesalyn Moore is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner with more than 15 years of experience in behavioral health leadership, trauma treatment, and first responder wellness. She currently serves as the Public Safety Wellness Manager for the James City County Police Department and is the Co-Owner of Mission Mind Wellness, a veteran- and woman-owned practice dedicated to supporting law enforcement, military, and first responder families.

Jesalyn’s passion for this work is deeply personal—she’s a Navy kid and the spouse of a former law enforcement officer. Her lived experience gives her a unique understanding of the culture, challenges, and resilience found within those who serve. Through her national keynotes and training programs, Jesalyn blends evidence-based practice with empathy and real-world insight, helping organizations build psychologically safe, trauma-informed cultures that sustain those who protect and serve.

Latoya D. Dorsey is an award-winning human resources leader with over 14 years of progressive experience in local government and law enforcement. As the Human Resources Manager for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), she serves as a strategic partner to executive leadership, providing critical support to a workforce of more than 2,000 sworn and civilian employees.

Renowned for her ability to balance results and relationships, Latoya is a trusted advisor and seasoned investigator, adept at managing high-stakes cases involving Title VII discrimination, ADA accommodations, EEOC litigation, and OSHA and Department of Labor claims. Her work has played a pivotal role in mitigating risk and fostering a culture grounded in compliance, integrity, and trust.

Latoya is a certified Workplace Big Five Consultant, a certified AIRS Professional Recruiter, and holds a Six Sigma certification. She has also completed a specialized certification program in Internal Investigations, strengthening her expertise in navigating complex employee relations issues with precision and fairness.

A passionate and engaging communicator, Latoya is frequently invited to share her expertise on both local and national stages. She has presented on critical topics such as emotional intelligence, leadership development, workplace investigations, and employee relations, earning a reputation as a thought leader in public sector HR.

Latoya holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Fayetteville State University and a master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Human Services, with concentrations in Human Resources Management and Social and Community Services. She is an active member of several professional organizations including NOBLE, SHRM, PSHRA, and Charlotte Area SHRM, where she continues to influence HR practices and policy development.

Committed to mentorship and community impact, Latoya is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, where she proudly supports youth leadership initiatives and collegiate engagement. Her southern charm, results-driven approach, and unwavering dedication to empowering others have made her a respected and influential figure in the HR profession.

Biograph Pending

Mike Milstein began in local government when he joined the Chicago Mayor's Office in 2016 during a time when the City of Chicago and Chicago Police Department were under a Department of Justice investigation that later found severe practices of unconstitutional policing. Mike immediately began supporting the City's response to the investigation and early plans for reform, including the negotiation of a consent decree. Once implemented, he led the Mayor's Office's early infrastructure around the implementation of the new consent decree. In 2020, a week before the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Mike joined the Chicago Police Department's Office of Community Policing, where he led the Department's effort to engage communities around reform and impartial policing efforts. Since joining the Chicago Police Department, Mike has been instrumental in leading the Chicago Police Department's efforts to implement impartial policing practices. He’s worked with communities to create forward-thinking policies, trainings, and programs that impact many diverse communities, including the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, religious minorities, and victims of gender-based violence. In July of 2024, Mike launched the Chicago Police Department's Office of Equity and Engagement, a brand-new team within the Department solely focused on advancing and supporting equity and impartial policing throughout the Chicago Police Department. Mike additionally took over the Chicago Police Department's new Office of Victim Services, which includes support services for victims and survivors of gun violence, domestic violence, and other forms of gender-based violence. Mike got his start in public service by working on and volunteering for several political and social campaigns where he was an advocate for justice and fairness. Mike has a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Chicago, a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and completed the Executive Program for Social Impact Strategy from the University of Pennsylvania.

Nola M. Joyce is a Partner and Principal Consultant for 21CP Solutions, LLC, and a nationally recognized policing expert. She served as Deputy Commissioner for Services, Strategy, and Innovation with the Philadelphia Police Department. Previously, she held executive positions in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, the Chicago Police Department, and the Illinois Department of Corrections. She created and directed significant organizational change efforts in these demanding public safety agencies.

Nola M. Joyce is driven by a deep passion for helping agencies reach new heights of performance and service. Her expertise lies in assessing organizational performance, providing innovative and unique solutions, and devising strategic implementation plans. With advanced degrees in sociology, public policy, and homeland security, she brings a wealth of diverse experiences and broad perspectives to her work, enabling her to find unique solutions to complex issues.

Ms. Joyce’s consulting experience includes helping police departments understand their staffing needs and workload demands. She also works with police departments on strategic planning and modernizing their policies, procedures, and programs to meet the demands of the 21st century. 

She is on the boards of the University of Virginia Criminal Justice Advisory Board and the National Association of Professional Staff in Public Safety.

Capital Region Crime Analysis Center Assistant Director Ryan Meagher has worked at the Center since 2015 in a variety of roles, first as a DOCCS/parole analyst, then as a group dispute analyst 2017-2019 and later as a lead crime analyst / IT coordinator. Supporting the Center's Real Time Crime Services for many years, Meagher has had the opportunity to become involved in hundreds of cases with law enforcement partners and has achieved NYS level II crime analyst certification.

Rebecca Rodriguez is the current Director of Police Education at the Portland Police Bureau and is an experienced administrator, educator, and training facilitator. She has served 21 years as an educator, 18 of those years in adult education. Primarily, her work has been in teaching and designing curriculum for high stress professions in undergraduate and graduate schools of social work. She also has 21 years of experience as a clinical social worker thereby using her practice experience in a high stress profession to design effective instruction for settings which require complex and dynamic skills. Her practice experience spans various settings including juvenile corrections, county jails, community-based programs and private practice. She has held various leadership, supervisory and mentoring roles. Most recently, she entered the field of law enforcement as a professional staff and has found opportunities to transfer existing leadership skills into sworn settings. She holds a bachelor’s degree in justice studies, a Master of Social Work and a Doctor of Philosophy in Social Work and Social Research. She has lived experience as the sister of two police officers and is passionate about supporting the work of law enforcement.

Sarah Boyle currently serves as the Deputy Director of Strategic Planning in the Office of the Superintendent at the Chicago Police Department. She is responsible for managing and implementing high-profile projects that includes organizational development, increased technology capacity, and strengthening city-wide partnerships. Most recently, she has spent her time implementing CPD's Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC) and revitalizing the Department's Forensic Division.

Previously, Sarah has served as the Interim Chief of Staff for Interim Superintendent Fred Waller and as a Project Strategy Manager responsible for implementing the Chicago Police Department's Consent Decree.  

Sarah holds a master's degree in public policy from the Harris School at the University of Chicago and an undergraduate degree in geography and international relations from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland.

Biography Pending

Brian G. Maxey serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Seattle Police Department, overseeing Professional Standards, Budget and Finance, Administrative Services, Information Technology, and Intergovernmental Relations. Previously, he worked as a Supervising Assistant City Attorney at the Seattle City Attorney’s Office, where he was lead attorney for the Police Action Team, specializing in 42 U.S.C. 1983 litigation and general advice to the Seattle Police Department; as an Assistant City Attorney in Government Affairs; as Assistant Corporation Counsel in the Special Federal Litigation Unit of the New York City Law Department, representing the New York City Police Department; and as Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Justice Division of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office, representing WA Department of Corrections and the Criminal Justice Training Commission. Brian also previously served on Federal monitoring teams in Cleveland and Baltimore and worked as a consultant driving best policing practices nationally. Brian also worked for the Vera Institute of Justice, concentrating on jury and juvenile court reform; as Director of the Citizens Jury Project at the Fund for Modern Courts; and as Executive Director of Friends of Hudson River Park. Brian holds a JD from Fordham University, an MPA in Policy from New York University, and a BA from Occidental College, and attended the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police. He is licensed to practice law in Washington, New York, and California.

Mr. Marvin Haiman is an Assistant Professor and the Executive Director of Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia. He is also a Visiting Fellow and Research Scholar with Rutger’s University. Haiman served as the Chief of Staff for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. between 2021 and 2024. In this capacity, Haiman oversaw daily operations of the Executive Office of the Chief of Police and was responsible for broad agency management and implementing strategic agency objectives.

Haiman was responsible for several organizational units including the Office of Communications, Office of General Counsel, Office of Wellness and the Professional Development Bureau. He served as the Executive Director of the Professional Development Bureau between 2017 – 2021, leading the Recruiting Division, Metropolitan Police Academy Division, Human Resource Management Division, Disciplinary Review Division, Testing and Assessment Division, Equal Employment Opportunity Division, Office of Communications and the Strategic Engagement Office (Volunteer Services).

Prior to being named Executive Director, Haiman served in a variety of capacities between 2015-2017, including developing the agency’s Office of Volunteer Coordination, serving as Chief of Staff for the Technical Services Division tasked with a broad range of IT operations, and Chief of Staff for the Strategic Services Bureau supporting and leading the administration of police recruitment, training, policy and volunteer service matters for the Department.

Prior to returning to the Metropolitan Police Department, Haiman served as Director for the Homeland Security Advisory Council for the United States Department of Homeland Security, where he established several key task forces for the Secretary (e.g., Foreign Fighters, Integrity & Use of Force). Prior to his Federal service, Haiman led the Recruiting Division for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., among various other positions. Haiman was responsible for restructuring the sworn hiring process, decreasing the amount of time it took to process candidates while increasing the quality of those officers hired.

Haiman graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in management through the Police Executive Leadership Program. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics from the University of Iowa and received designation as a Certified Public Management Program through George Washington University, as well as certification in Strategic Project Management. Haiman is also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security’s Executive Leadership Program. He received recognition by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2020 as a 40 under 40 recipient and the prestigious Gary P. Hayes Award by the Police Executive Research Forum. Haiman graduated from the Metropolitan Police Academy and continues his police service as a reserve police officer with the Metropolitan Police Department. Haiman resides with his family in Washington, D.C.

Assistant Deputy Commissioner Krista Ashbery joined the New York City Police Department in August 2006. In her current role in the Strategic Initiatives Bureau, ADC Ashbery provides support and guidance to the Deputy Commissioner and other senior executive leadership on identifying, executing, and evaluating the long term vision for the Department. Her work focuses on the creation and maintenance of external partnerships and collaborations, as well as ensuring priority projects are properly implemented and maintained. ADC Ashbery began her career as an agency attorney in the Legal Bureau, and previously worked in the Office of Collaborative Policing, the Facilities Management Division, and as the senior policy advisor to the Deputy Commissioner, Management and Budget on matters relating to budgeting, contracting and facilities oversight. Her most recent role prior to Strategic Initiatives was as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Police Commissioner. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Muhlenberg College and a Juris Doctorate from Brooklyn Law School.

Advisory Board Member

Ganesha M. Martin, Esq. is a leading expert in human-centered policing and the founder of "Let’s Meet in the Middle," an initiative dedicated to fostering dialogue and collaboration between law enforcement and communities of color. Currently, she serves as the Bureau Chief of Constitutional Policing for the Minneapolis Police Department as well as the Vice President of Public Policy and Community Affairs at Mark43, a cutting-edge, cloud-native public safety software company. In this role, Martin drives initiatives that leverage technology to enhance accountability, transparency and trust between police agencies and the communities they serve. 

A trailblazer in criminal justice reform, Martin has held several key leadership positions in Baltimore City government, most recently as Director of the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ). There, she led comprehensive criminal justice reform efforts in collaboration with the Baltimore Police Department, the Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office, the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention, the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the judiciary and numerous community organizations. 

As an attorney, Martin played a central role in leading the federal court-ordered Consent Decree reform efforts at the Baltimore Police Department from 2015 to 2018. As Chief of the Department of Justice Compliance, Accountability and External Affairs Division, she was an integral member of the negotiation team that introduced transformative reforms in areas such as crisis intervention, use of force, mental health interventions, body-worn cameras, de-escalation tactics, community policing, officer wellness and early intervention systems. These reforms continue to serve as a model for law enforcement agencies nationwide. 

A pioneer in public-private partnerships, Martin is committed to building nontraditional relationships that bridge divides and create opportunities for collaboration in public safety. In her current consulting work, she focuses on uniting law enforcement with communities of color, using her unique ability to connect with both sides and guide them toward common ground. She regularly advises nonprofits, private companies, tech startups, community organizations and local governments on best practices for policing, public safety and community engagement. 

Martin is a respected thought leader in the field of criminal justice reform and public safety. She is a member of the Council on Criminal Justice, a nonpartisan think tank dedicated to advancing effective criminal justice policies. In 2019, she was one of 40 community policing experts invited to Nairobi, Kenya, by the Open Society Foundations to discuss strategies for civilian police reform. That same year, she was awarded the Securing Open Societies Fellowship. Her expert commentary on police reform, accountability and social justice has been featured in prominent publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, The Baltimore Sun, and The Baltimore Banner. 

Known for her ability to navigate complex issues and overcome entrenched distrust, Martin is driven by a belief in the transformative power of communication and human connection. Her approach fosters collaboration across polarized groups and drives progress on some of society’s most challenging social issues. Her goal is to create practical pathways for police departments and communities to work together toward a safer and more equitable future. 

Outside of her professional work, Martin is a passionate advocate for social justice and community empowerment. She serves as co-board chair for Teach For America  Baltimore, Outward Bound, the Baltimore Community Mediation Center, and Overcoming Poverty Together. She was recently appointed to 30x30, a grassroots movement dedicated to increasing the representation of women in policing by 30% by 2030. A graduate of Leadership Maryland and the Greater Baltimore Committee’s LEADERship program, Martin has been recognized for her leadership and impact by organizations such as The Baltimore Sun (Top 25 Women to Watch), The Daily Record (Top 100 Women), and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) (Top 40 Under 40). 

Dr. Tanya Meisenholder is the Director of Police Research at the NYU School of Law’s Policing Project, where she leads the 30x30 Initiative to advance and support women in policing. She also supports initiatives related to alternative response models, public safety technology, and legislation.

Tanya brings nearly three decades of experience in law enforcement, primarily with the New York City Police Department, where she served in senior leadership roles including Chief of Staff and Deputy Commissioner. She led major efforts to transform training, accountability, recruitment, and organizational culture, and has supported national initiatives, oversight bodies, and local strategies to strengthen trust between police and the communities they serve.

Her work focuses on translating research into action to help agencies implement measurable improvements in policy, workplace culture, and public safety outcomes. She has guided organizational change across complex public safety systems and continues to support cross-sector collaboration to build more fair and effective agencies.

Tanya earned her Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from the University at Albany (SUNY), is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police, and holds certifications as a Modern Chief Diversity Officer and in Equal Employment Opportunity investigations from Cornell University. She serves on the advisory boards of the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy and the National Association of Professional Staff in Public Safety, and has held advisory roles with the National Center for State Courts and the NYC Mayor’s Automated Decision Systems Task Force.

Biography Pending

2025 Emergency Operations Center of the Future Conference Speaker

Tipi Brookins is a native of Gloucester County, New Jersey, and is a seasoned Public Safety Communications professional with over twenty-three years of experience. She began her career as a 971 Call Taker, Dispatcher, Communications Training Officer, Training and Quality Assurance Specialist, and 911 Supervisor, having filled the shoes of a first responder. Tipi has worked in many roles that include Teletype Unit Manager for the DC Metropolitan Police Department, Training and Quality Assurance Manager, Chief of the Office of Professional Standards and Development, and Chief of Staff for the DC Office of Unified Communications. In that latter position, she handles several units, including the Wellness Program and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy.  She has proven skills, expertise, and mastery when designing, developing, implementing, and coordinating organizational development and training programs. Tipi also has a desire for organizational change. She was named Chair of the Training Subcommittee for the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments in 2022, received her Center Manager Certification from the National Emergency Number Association (NENA), serves with the Association of Public Safety Officials and the National Emergency Number Association, and currently chairs the agency's Culture task force. Tipi inspires and encourages others to lead by example with purpose and integrity and to develop the future leaders of tomorrow.

Tyeesha Dixon is a strategic advisor and attorney with a deep background in public safety strategy, civil rights, and government and organizational development. She most recently served as Deputy White House Counsel and Deputy Assistant to President Biden, leading legal efforts to embed civil rights across federal policymaking. Ms. Dixon previously served as Deputy Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago, where she led implementation of the city’s policing consent decree and founded the office's Public Safety Reform Division. Ms. Dixon has served as a Clinical Instructor at Harvard Law School’s LGBTQ+ Advocacy Clinic and practiced at national litigation firms in Washington, DC, and Boston. Ms. Dixon holds a JD from Harvard Law School and a BA in Journalism from the University of Maryland.

Dr. Vidal A. Chavannes is an educator, strategist, and researcher with more than two decades of experience advancing evidence-informed leadership in public safety, education, and organizational development. He currently serves as Senior Director of Community Safety at Toronto Community Housing Corporation, where he leads strategic initiatives to strengthen trust, accountability, and outcomes in community safety and well-being.

Previously, Dr. Chavannes was Director of Strategy, Research & Organizational Performance with the Durham Regional Police Service, where he helped shape data-driven decision-making and enterprise accountability systems.

Holding a Doctorate in Education (Leadership) from the University of Calgary, he is also a Post-Doctoral Fellow with the University of Toronto and an Adjunct Professor at Ontario Tech University. His research and practice focus on equity-centered systems change, performance measurement, and leadership that bridges enforcement, engagement, and community trust.

Blake Norton, Chief Strategy Officer for the Sacramento Police Department, brings more than 30 years of distinguished experience in law enforcement and strategic management. As Chief Strategy Officer, Chief Norton oversees internal compliance, ensuring our operations meet all legislative mandates, and plays a key role in implementing best practices in risk management. Additionally, she leads our external communication efforts, advising on how we engage with the community, City Council, Sacramento Community Police Review Commission, and other stakeholders. Prior to joining SPD, she served as the Chief Strategy Officer for the Philadelphia Police Department from 2020 to 2024, where she was instrumental in shaping the department’s strategic initiatives. Before that, she held the position of Senior Vice President at the National Police Foundation, overseeing daily operations and initiatives aimed at improving policing practices across the country. Chief Norton’s extensive career also includes leadership roles at the Council of State Governments Justice Center, where she directed Local Government Initiatives, collaborating with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels to develop and implement innovative criminal justice policies. She spent 19 years with the Boston Police Department, where she served as the Director of Public Affairs and Community Programs. In this role, she was responsible for designing and managing community engagement initiatives, particularly those aimed at supporting court-involved and at-risk youth, underscoring her deep commitment to community policing.

James Dudley is a 32-year veteran of the San Francisco Police Department where he retired as deputy chief of the Patrol Bureau. He has served as the DC of Special Operations and Liaison to the Department of Emergency Management where he served as Event and Incident Commander for a variety of incidents, operations and emergencies. He has a Master’s degree in Criminology and Social Ecology from the University of California at Irvine. He is currently a member of the Criminal Justice faculty at San Francisco State University, consults on organizational assessments for LE agencies and hosts the Policing Matters podcast for Police1.

Stacy Olson serves as the Director of the Arizona Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ALEAP), having been appointed Program Manager in December 2024 and promoted to Director in April 2025. She brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to advancing professional standards in law enforcement across Arizona. Stacy's journey with ALEAP began in 2020 as the Accreditation Manager for the Prescott Police Department, where her leadership enabled the agency to enroll and achieve accreditation in just 11 months. 

She later expanded her impact at the Salt River Police Department (SRPD), a large tribal agency, where she led the department through several landmark achievements: obtaining the first Emergency Communications Center accreditation in January 2024, completing a four-year law enforcement reaccreditation in July 2024, and overseeing the successful Property and Evidence accreditation assessment in early 2025. As a founding member and former Vice President of the Coalition for Arizona Police Accreditation (CAPA), Stacy demonstrated exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to maintaining the highest standards within Arizona law enforcement agencies. 

In her role as ALEAP's Tribal Liaison, she leveraged her expertise to bridge the gap between law enforcement practices and tribal communities, advocating for culturally sensitive and inclusive accreditation processes. Her contributions in this area have been recognized nationally, including coverage in the COPS Office Dispatch magazine, and helped position Arizona as a leader in supporting tribal agencies seeking accreditation. 

As a civilian professional working within the sworn law enforcement industry, Stacy brings a unique perspective that enhances collaboration and innovation. Her civilian status allows her to serve as an objective bridge-builder between agencies, communities, and accreditation standards, while her deep understanding of law enforcement operations enables her to effectively advocate for best practices and professional excellence. This civilian expertise has proven invaluable in creating inclusive accreditation frameworks that respect both the operational realities of sworn personnel and the broader community trust that modern law enforcement requires. 

Stacy's dedication to professional integrity and excellence has earned her statewide recognition, including being named Arizona Law Enforcement Accreditation Manager of the Year and receiving the Robert DeVries Accreditation Leadership Award. As Director, she continues to guide agencies statewide through accreditation processes, develop training, and foster strong relationships with law enforcement leaders, all with the goal of enhancing professionalism, transparency, and community trust throughout Arizona. 

Arif Alikhan is the President and Chief Legal Counsel of TacLogix, Inc., leading the company’s policy development, constitutional policing, community engagement, and strategic planning services. A nationally recognized expert in policing, homeland security, and counterterrorism, Arif has over 25 years of experience in senior policy, legal, and operational roles with the U.S. Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and the City of Los Angeles. He served as a federal prosecutor, senior advisor to two U.S. Attorneys General, and Assistant Secretary for Policy Development at DHS during the Obama administration, overseeing counterterrorism, intelligence, and emergency management initiatives. In Los Angeles, Arif was Deputy Mayor for Homeland Security and Public Safety, managing over $200 million in federal grants and advising the mayor on public safety. He later led security operations for Los Angeles World Airports, overseeing 1,200 sworn officers and personnel at LAX and Van Nuys airports. Most recently, as Director of Constitutional Policing and Policy for the LAPD, he led policy development, legal affairs, risk management, and community engagement. He was also the first civilian appointed to the rank of Assistant Chief of Police in LAPD history. Arif has taught at USC, UC Irvine, and National Defense University and is a certified law enforcement instructor and reserve police officer. He frequently lectures nationwide on public safety and homeland security.

A seasoned government leader with experience in multiple New York City agencies, Amy Bishop currently serves as the Executive Director of the Project Management Office within the New York City Police Department. Amy joined the NYPD In 2017 as a Senior Project Manager, working with Department stakeholders to drive initiatives to increase efficiency through innovation and continuous improvement. Over the next seven years, she rose through the ranks of Deputy Director, Director, and most recently to Executive Director in June 2024. In this role, Amy leads a team of both civilian and uniformed staff managing projects that advance the Department’s mission. Among her accomplishments in these roles are the development of the NYPD Strategic Plans, the Department’s first health & wellness strategy, a Department-wide civilianization assessment, and the implementation of various police reform mandates.

Assistant Deputy Commissioner Krista Ashbery joined the New York City Police Department in August 2006. In her current role in the Strategic Initiatives Bureau, ADC Ashbery provides support and guidance to the Deputy Commissioner and other senior executive leadership on identifying, executing, and evaluating the long term vision for the Department. Her work focuses on the creation and maintenance of external partnerships and collaborations, as well as ensuring priority projects are properly implemented and maintained. ADC Ashbery began her career as an agency attorney in the Legal Bureau, and previously worked in the Office of Collaborative Policing, the Facilities Management Division, and as the senior policy advisor to the Deputy Commissioner, Management and Budget on matters relating to budgeting, contracting and facilities oversight. Her most recent role prior to Strategic Initiatives was as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Police Commissioner. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Muhlenberg College and a Juris Doctorate from Brooklyn Law School.

Sarah Allen, Chief of Staff at Colorado State Patrol. Sarah, appointed as the Colorado State Patrol’s first Chief of Staff in 2020, is a strong advocate for professional staff and their essential role in the success of law enforcement agencies. In November 2024, Sarah published The Unsung Heroes in IACP Police Chief Magazine, highlighting the impact of professional staff on organizational effectiveness.

Advisory Board Member

Jim Burch is the President of the National Policing Institute (NPI), a transformative and mission-centered organization pioneering advancements in policing by leveraging science and community innovations. Burch is the fifth person to serve as president of NPI, a national, independent, and nonpartisan organization established in 1970. 

Burch leads a dedicated team of over sixty professionals, encompassing both practitioners and researchers, and champions the cause of effective and professional 21st-century policing to foster safer communities and a stronger democracy. Under his dynamic leadership, NPI has experienced an unprecedented rise, significantly amplifying its reach and influence both domestically and globally, building on an astounding six-fold increase in overall funding revenues from 2015 to 2023. 

Before assuming his role at NPI, Jim Burch amassed over two decades of experience within the US Department of Justice (DOJ), scaling the ranks to occupy pivotal senior leadership positions. As the Deputy Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs (OJP), an office with a budget exceeding $2 billion during his tenure, he held the distinguished position of overseeing the agency’s operations and management, including those of six offices led by presidential appointees and five OJP management offices responsible for financial operations, technology, communications, human resources, audit and EEO functions. As the highest-ranking career staff member in OJP, Burch engaged with members of Congress, congressional committees, and cabinet officials and their senior staff. During his subsequent tenure as Acting Assistant Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), a federal law enforcement agency within the DOJ, his role entailed orchestrating multifaceted engagement and strategies spanning congressional, inter-governmental, and public affairs both nationally and in Washington. 

Burch’s career within DOJ was further underscored by his presidential appointment as Acting Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance, where he directed over $500 million in annual funding and investments to bolster state and local law enforcement and criminal justice agencies across the US. His diverse roles furnished him with unparalleled insights into the intricacies, challenges, and opportunities of state and local criminal justice systems, enabling him to spearhead transformative federal criminal justice policies and initiatives. 

After twenty years of federal service, Burch transitioned to the civil sector, joining NPI as Executive Vice President for Strategic Initiatives in 2015, where he harnessed his extensive expertise to propel NPI into a vanguard of evidence-based policing and innovation. 

Burch’s career extends beyond his NPI presidency and federal service. He presently holds the esteemed position of Senior Fellow at George Mason University’s Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy, where he earned induction into the Evidence-Based Policing Hall of Fame for championing evidence-based policies in law enforcement. Burch is an Adjunct Instructor at George Mason University and has published on the topic of evidence-based policing and criminal justice improvement. His commitment to the field is evidenced by his board membership in national organizations such as the National Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial Fund, the National Public Safety GIS Foundation, and a youth-focused civics education organization called Street Law, Inc. 

Burch earned a bachelor’s degree in criminology from the University of Maryland and a master of administration degree from Central Michigan University.

Matthew Bromeland has served as the Chief of Staff of the Prince William County (Virginia) Police Department since August 2021. Prior to this role, he served for nearly five years as the Chief of Staff of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C. He has also served in roles with the Richmond (VA) Police Department and two federal agencies. Matt has devoted his career to helping modernize agency operations and enhancing the way police departments can better serve the community. Matt has spearheaded and managed many of the Chief’s key initiatives and priorities, including an interagency initiative focused on repeat violent offenders, creation of a real-time investigative support unit, implementation of a new records management system, and most recently the establishment of a strategic analysis and intelligence hub. Matt holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from St. Olaf College in Minnesota. He is also a graduate of the David A. Clarke School of Law at the University of the District of Columbia and is a member in good standing of the District of Columbia Bar.

Elizabeth M. Daitz is the Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Suffolk County Police Department. She drives strategic planning, implementation, and innovation, positioning Suffolk County to be one of the most innovative, efficient, effective and equitable law enforcement agencies while serving over 1.5 million residents across 913 square miles. She previously served as Executive Director, Civil Litigation and Executive Director, Strategic Initiatives for the NYPD. From 2019-2020, Elizabeth served as a White House Fellow in the Office of the Chief of Staff to the President. There, she drafted and implemented the President's Executive Order "Safe Policing for Safe Communities." Elizabeth began her career at the Office of the Corporation Counsel of the City of New York, where she handled multiple high profile federal civil rights cases. Elizabeth is a graduate of the Honors College at Adelphi University, St. John’s University School of Law, and a Session XXIX of the Police Management Institute at Columbia University. She is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Police Executive Research Forum, National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, Chiefs of Police Association of Suffolk County, and the White House Fellows Foundation and Association.

Rebecca Boatright serves as General Counsel to the Seattle Police Department, a role that provides broad legal, strategic and risk management guidance to the Department’s Command Staff and oversees a section of dedicated professionals responsible for handling day-to-day legal guidance, public records production and litigation support.  A recovering academic with a deep interest in the neurophysiology of stress and its impact on cognition, judgment and behavior, Becca has dedicated much of her career with SPD to building up comprehensive enterprise risk management structures and systems that focus on officer wellness as a central pillar of organizational success.  Prior to joining SPD in 2015, Becca spent fifteen years as an assistant city attorney, representing and advising SPD and other departments in civil litigation, including a consent decree between the United States and the City of Seattle arising out of allegations of excessive use of force and biased policing.     

Becca received a bachelor’s degree from the College of Wooster (Wooster, OH) and both her PhD (1999) and JD (2002) from the University of Washington.  In addition to prior service on national taskforces in areas relating to use of force, officer wellness and performance management, she presently serves as a steering committee member for the Knowledge Lab, sponsored by the National Policing Institute, and as the chair of the Legal Officers Section of the Major Cities Chiefs Association.  She holds certifications in government leadership through the University of Washington and the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, and is a 2018 graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police. 

Heidi Fieselmann is a leader in using data, analytics, and technology to advance public safety and criminal justice initiatives. As Director of Customer-Focused Solutions at Mark43, she collaborates with industry experts and agencies nationwide to implement cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies that improve operational efficiency and public accountability. Previously, Heidi served as Special Assistant to the Chief of Police at the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., where she managed the Chief of Police’s executive project portfolio, overseeing critical initiatives centered on data and analytics, technology, process improvements, and program evaluation. She also led a five-person team of data and behavioral scientists who evaluated MPD programs and processes, conducted advanced analytics, and recommended evidence-based solutions to address priorities such as gun violence, police stops, use of force, community engagement, training, and public safety transformation initiatives, including alternatives to traditional policing. Heidi guided the Department’s research agenda and oversaw large-scale projects to improve data quality and integrity. Additionally, she spearheaded the development of MPD’s Open Data platform, providing public access to key policing information, and managed a $1 million Crime Gun Intelligence Center grant to enhance the department’s ability to address gun violence. Before joining MPD, Heidi gained expertise in analytics and program management at Booz Allen Hamilton, supporting strategic planning, performance management, and process improvement initiatives for the Justice and Homeland Security market. A PMP-certified professional and Harvard Kennedy School graduate, Heidi is dedicated to fostering innovation in public safety systems.

Mr. Marvin Haiman is an Assistant Professor and the Executive Director of Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia. He is also a Visiting Fellow and Research Scholar with Rutger’s University. Haiman served as the Chief of Staff for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. between 2021 and 2024. In this capacity, Haiman oversaw daily operations of the Executive Office of the Chief of Police and was responsible for broad agency management and implementing strategic agency objectives.

Haiman was responsible for several organizational units including the Office of Communications, Office of General Counsel, Office of Wellness and the Professional Development Bureau. He served as the Executive Director of the Professional Development Bureau between 2017 – 2021, leading the Recruiting Division, Metropolitan Police Academy Division, Human Resource Management Division, Disciplinary Review Division, Testing and Assessment Division, Equal Employment Opportunity Division, Office of Communications and the Strategic Engagement Office (Volunteer Services).

Prior to being named Executive Director, Haiman served in a variety of capacities between 2015-2017, including developing the agency’s Office of Volunteer Coordination, serving as Chief of Staff for the Technical Services Division tasked with a broad range of IT operations, and Chief of Staff for the Strategic Services Bureau supporting and leading the administration of police recruitment, training, policy and volunteer service matters for the Department.

Prior to returning to the Metropolitan Police Department, Haiman served as Director for the Homeland Security Advisory Council for the United States Department of Homeland Security, where he established several key task forces for the Secretary (e.g., Foreign Fighters, Integrity & Use of Force). Prior to his Federal service, Haiman led the Recruiting Division for the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C., among various other positions. Haiman was responsible for restructuring the sworn hiring process, decreasing the amount of time it took to process candidates while increasing the quality of those officers hired.

Haiman graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in management through the Police Executive Leadership Program. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics from the University of Iowa and received designation as a Certified Public Management Program through George Washington University, as well as certification in Strategic Project Management. Haiman is also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security’s Executive Leadership Program. He received recognition by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2020 as a 40 under 40 recipient and the prestigious Gary P. Hayes Award by the Police Executive Research Forum. Haiman graduated from the Metropolitan Police Academy and continues his police service as a reserve police officer with the Metropolitan Police Department. Haiman resides with his family in Washington, D.C.

Advisory Board Member

Nola M. Joyce, Partner and Principal Consultant for 21CP Solutions, LLC, is a nationally recognized policing expert. She also served as Deputy Commissioner for the Philadelphia Police Department and held executive positions in the Washington, D.C., and Chicago Police Departments. She spearheaded significant organizational change efforts in these demanding public safety agencies, demonstrating exceptional ability to drive transformation. 

Joyce's achievements and recognition in policing and public safety are extensive and diverse. She served on several prestigious advisory boards, including the American Law Institute’s project Principles of the Law: Policing, and the National Science Academy’s Panel on Modernizing the Nation’s Criminal Statistics. Her expertise is widely recognized, as evidenced by her role on the International Association of Police Chiefs (IACP) Research Advisory Committee, the Police Executive Research Forum’s (PERF) Research Council, and as a Senior Executive Fellow of the National Institute of Policing. Joyce received the Gary P. Hayes Award from PERF and the Award of Research Excellence from IACP, further validating her significant contributions to the field. 

Joyce is driven by a deep passion for helping agencies reach new heights of performance and service. Her advanced degrees in sociology, public policy, homeland security and diverse experiences bring unique and valuable perspectives to her work. This combination of passion and expertise allows her to find innovative solutions to complex issues. 

Brian G. Maxey serves as the Chief Operating Officer of the Seattle Police Department, overseeing Professional Standards, Budget and Finance, Administrative Services, Information Technology, and Intergovernmental Relations. Previously, he worked as a Supervising Assistant City Attorney at the Seattle City Attorney’s Office, where he was lead attorney for the Police Action Team, specializing in 42 U.S.C. 1983 litigation and general advice to the Seattle Police Department; as an Assistant City Attorney in Government Affairs; as Assistant Corporation Counsel in the Special Federal Litigation Unit of the New York City Law Department, representing the New York City Police Department; and as Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Justice Division of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office, representing WA Department of Corrections and the Criminal Justice Training Commission. Brian also previously served on Federal monitoring teams in Cleveland and Baltimore and worked as a consultant driving best policing practices nationally. Brian also worked for the Vera Institute of Justice, concentrating on jury and juvenile court reform; as Director of the Citizens Jury Project at the Fund for Modern Courts; and as Executive Director of Friends of Hudson River Park. Brian holds a JD from Fordham University, an MPA in Policy from New York University, and a BA from Occidental College, and attended the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police. He is licensed to practice law in Washington, New York, and California.

Tara Hall brings over 20 years of public safety leadership and currently serves in a professional staff command-level role, overseeing operations and personnel in the Community Relations & Recruitment Division of the Mesa Police Department. In 2024, she co-authored “Pioneering Integration and Leadership in Law Enforcement” for Police Chief Magazine and was featured in Police1 for transforming Mesa PD’s recruitment culture. Tara also led the implementation of the department’s 2022–2024 Strategic Recruitment Plan, modernizing efforts to attract and retain a qualified, diverse workforce.

Beyond her role in Mesa, Tara provides technical assistance to law enforcement agencies nationwide through partnerships with federal and national policing organizations, including the COPS Office, DOJ, and IACP. In 2025, Tara was named NAWLEE’s Professional Staff Leader of the Year. She serves on the advisory board of the National Association of Professional Staff in Public Safety (NAPSPS), and contributes to the strategic development of the University of Virginia’s annual Civilian Leadership Summit. Tara holds degrees from Northern Arizona University and has completed executive leadership training in policing. She enjoys traveling with her family and leading efforts across the country in public safety transformation.

Advisory Board Member

Ganesha M. Martin, Esq. is a leading expert in human-centered policing and the founder of "Let’s Meet in the Middle," an initiative dedicated to fostering dialogue and collaboration between law enforcement and communities of color. Currently, she serves as the Bureau Chief of Constitutional Policing for the Minneapolis Police Department as well as the Vice President of Public Policy and Community Affairs at Mark43, a cutting-edge, cloud-native public safety software company. In this role, Martin drives initiatives that leverage technology to enhance accountability, transparency and trust between police agencies and the communities they serve. 

A trailblazer in criminal justice reform, Martin has held several key leadership positions in Baltimore City government, most recently as Director of the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ). There, she led comprehensive criminal justice reform efforts in collaboration with the Baltimore Police Department, the Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office, the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention, the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the judiciary and numerous community organizations. 

As an attorney, Martin played a central role in leading the federal court-ordered Consent Decree reform efforts at the Baltimore Police Department from 2015 to 2018. As Chief of the Department of Justice Compliance, Accountability and External Affairs Division, she was an integral member of the negotiation team that introduced transformative reforms in areas such as crisis intervention, use of force, mental health interventions, body-worn cameras, de-escalation tactics, community policing, officer wellness and early intervention systems. These reforms continue to serve as a model for law enforcement agencies nationwide. 

A pioneer in public-private partnerships, Martin is committed to building nontraditional relationships that bridge divides and create opportunities for collaboration in public safety. In her current consulting work, she focuses on uniting law enforcement with communities of color, using her unique ability to connect with both sides and guide them toward common ground. She regularly advises nonprofits, private companies, tech startups, community organizations and local governments on best practices for policing, public safety and community engagement. 

Martin is a respected thought leader in the field of criminal justice reform and public safety. She is a member of the Council on Criminal Justice, a nonpartisan think tank dedicated to advancing effective criminal justice policies. In 2019, she was one of 40 community policing experts invited to Nairobi, Kenya, by the Open Society Foundations to discuss strategies for civilian police reform. That same year, she was awarded the Securing Open Societies Fellowship. Her expert commentary on police reform, accountability and social justice has been featured in prominent publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, The Baltimore Sun, and The Baltimore Banner. 

Known for her ability to navigate complex issues and overcome entrenched distrust, Martin is driven by a belief in the transformative power of communication and human connection. Her approach fosters collaboration across polarized groups and drives progress on some of society’s most challenging social issues. Her goal is to create practical pathways for police departments and communities to work together toward a safer and more equitable future. 

Outside of her professional work, Martin is a passionate advocate for social justice and community empowerment. She serves as co-board chair for Teach For America  Baltimore, Outward Bound, the Baltimore Community Mediation Center, and Overcoming Poverty Together. She was recently appointed to 30x30, a grassroots movement dedicated to increasing the representation of women in policing by 30% by 2030. A graduate of Leadership Maryland and the Greater Baltimore Committee’s LEADERship program, Martin has been recognized for her leadership and impact by organizations such as The Baltimore Sun (Top 25 Women to Watch), The Daily Record (Top 100 Women), and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) (Top 40 Under 40). 

Liam Price was appointed Director General, International Special Services, in July 2021. In this capacity, he is responsible for the RCMP’s international network of Liaison Officers, peace operations, overseas capacity building initiatives, and Canada’s Interpol National Central Bureau and Europol National Point of Contact. More recently, he has been elected as the delegate for the Americas for the INTERPOL Executive Committee.

Concurrent with these responsibilities, Mr. Price is the International Vice-President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and a member of its Executive Board (since 2022); as well as Chair of the International Committee of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (since 2021).

Mr. Price is a senior civilian member of the RCMP. Prior to becoming Director General, Mr. Price was posted overseas; first as the RCMP’s embed with the National Crime Agency in London, UK and more recently, as the RCMP’s Regional Director for US & NE Caribbean in Washington, D.C. In these roles, he led proactive investigations, deepened bilateral mand multilateral ties and increased information sharing.

Between 2012 and 2015, Mr. Price served as Director, Operational Information Management, in Federal Policing at the RCMP. In that capacity, he oversaw the RCMP’s framework for the collection, assessment and prioritization of intelligence and the production of threat assessments on a range of topics.

Mr. Price joined the RCMP in 2006. Past assignments have included posts at the Privy Council Office, the office the Special Representative of INTERPOL to the United Nations, and the RCMP’s National Security Program. Before joining the RCMP, Mr. Price served with Library of Parliament as Team Lead for the Senate Standing Committee on National Security and Defence. With the Committee, he helped release a number of reports related to the state of Canadian emergency preparedness, military readiness, border security and veteran’s affairs.

His education and training is varied. Most recently, he completed professional training with Pearls in Policing, the CACP Global Studies Program, the Canadian Forces College and the FBI Academy. Academically, he received a Master’s degree in International Security Studies from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and a Bachelor of Science (Foreign Service) from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.

Blake Norton, Chief Strategy Officer for the Sacramento Police Department, brings more than 30 years of distinguished experience in law enforcement and strategic management. As Chief Strategy Officer, Chief Norton oversees internal compliance, ensuring our operations meet all legislative mandates, and plays a key role in implementing best practices in risk management. Additionally, she leads our external communication efforts, advising on how we engage with the community, City Council, Sacramento Community Police Review Commission, and other stakeholders. Prior to joining SPD, she served as the Chief Strategy Officer for the Philadelphia Police Department from 2020 to 2024, where she was instrumental in shaping the department’s strategic initiatives. Before that, she held the position of Senior Vice President at the National Police Foundation, overseeing daily operations and initiatives aimed at improving policing practices across the country. Chief Norton’s extensive career also includes leadership roles at the Council of State Governments Justice Center, where she directed Local Government Initiatives, collaborating with policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels to develop and implement innovative criminal justice policies. She spent 19 years with the Boston Police Department, where she served as the Director of Public Affairs and Community Programs. In this role, she was responsible for designing and managing community engagement initiatives, particularly those aimed at supporting court-involved and at-risk youth, underscoring her deep commitment to community policing.

Katie Zafft, Ph.D., is a Senior Program Manager II at the National Policing Institute, where she leads the Law Enforcement Knowledge Lab—a federally funded initiative focused on equipping public safety professionals with evidence-based practices, training, and technical assistance. Since joining NPI in November 2024, Dr. Zafft has worked to ensure that law enforcement personnel have access to the tools, knowledge, and support they need to serve their communities effectively and safely.

Prior to NPI, Dr. Zafft managed the policing and evaluation portfolio at the Crime and Justice Institute. In that role, she partnered with law enforcement agencies across the country to implement both mandated reforms and self-directed innovations, always with a focus on improving outcomes for officers and the communities they protect. Her work emphasized practical, sustainable change and direct support for frontline personnel and leadership.

Dr. Zafft holds a Ph.D. in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, a Master’s Degree in Criminology from the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota.

William Paige is the Program Manager for the Center of Public and Justice at the University of Virginia.

William’s commitment to public service began as a civilian intern with the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. in the Court Liaison Division and Office of Volunteer Coordination, promoting the Department’s community relation initiatives. He also interned and worked in the Executive Office of the Mayor of Washington, D.C. During his time as an Associate in the Office of Federal and Regional Affairs, William engaged with federal and regional stakeholders to advance the interest of the District of Columbia on a wide range of policy issues. As an Associate Director in the Mayor’s Office of Talent and Appointments, William recruited and managed appointments within the Mayor’s cabinet and staff. His portfolio included, among others, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety & Justice and the Office of the Senior Advisor. He also advised certain Mayoral nominees through the D.C. Council confirmation process to numerous volunteer boards and commissions.

During his time at the Georgetown University Law Center, William was a research assistant focusing on federal securities litigation, a summer associate at two international law firms, served on the Executive Board of the Georgetown Black Law Student’s Association, and a student attorney in the Federal Legislation Clinic focusing on anti-hunger policy and advocacy.

William joins the Center for Public Safety & Justice from private legal practice where he focused on antitrust & competition law while maintaining an active pro bono practice. 

William graduated magna cum laude from St. John’s University with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Business Law. He earned his law degree from the Georgetown University Law Center. 

In his free time, William enjoys exercising, reading non-fiction, and traveling.

Dr. Tanya Meisenholder is the Director of Police Research at the NYU School of Law’s Policing Project, where she leads the 30x30 Initiative to advance and support women in policing. She also supports initiatives related to alternative response models, public safety technology, and legislation.

Tanya brings nearly three decades of experience in law enforcement, primarily with the New York City Police Department, where she served in senior leadership roles including Chief of Staff and Deputy Commissioner. She led major efforts to transform training, accountability, recruitment, and organizational culture, and has supported national initiatives, oversight bodies, and local strategies to strengthen trust between police and the communities they serve.

Her work focuses on translating research into action to help agencies implement measurable improvements in policy, workplace culture, and public safety outcomes. She has guided organizational change across complex public safety systems and continues to support cross-sector collaboration to build more fair and effective agencies.

Tanya earned her Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from the University at Albany (SUNY), is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Police, and holds certifications as a Modern Chief Diversity Officer and in Equal Employment Opportunity investigations from Cornell University. She serves on the advisory boards of the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy and the National Association of Professional Staff in Public Safety, and has held advisory roles with the National Center for State Courts and the NYC Mayor’s Automated Decision Systems Task Force.

Zoe Russek-Sobol is the Chief Program Officer of the National Association of Professional Staff in Public Safety, where she drives strategies, programs, and member services to recognize, empower, and connect the association’s members. An experienced public safety strategist, she has worked at the intersection of policing, technology, and community relations for nearly a decade, leading large-scale initiatives, shaping policy, and building diverse, cross-sector partnerships.

Prior to her current role, Zoe served as a Senior Program Manager at the National Policing Institute, administering the Law Enforcement Knowledge Lab. Funded by a $9 million U.S. Department of Justice award, this initiative advanced constitutional policing and provided tailored technical assistance to agencies nationwide. At Axon Enterprise, she championed equitable public safety technology, leading the company’s Ethics and Equity Advisory Council to new prominence within Axon, and created pathways for continuous dialogue between communities and law enforcement. Her foundational work took shape at the University of Chicago Crime Lab, where she helped develop and pilot the Chicago Police Department’s early intervention system and coordinated large-scale research and technical assistance projects to support officer wellness and innovative crime reduction strategies.

Zoe holds a Master of Arts in Public Policy with Honors from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts with Honors in the Major in Statistics and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Quiana Young serves as the Director of Advocacy, Engagement, and Communications at Brown University Department of Public Safety. As a member of the department’s command staff, she leads a division of sworn and non-sworn personnel, focusing on community engagement and support for victims of sensitive crimes.

Quiana’s career spans over a decade in higher education, where she designed impactful programs and advised students through their college journey. She also brings four years of experience in fundraising, during which she honed the art of building meaningful connections. A certified instructor for the Rhode Island VAWA Curriculum Committee, Quiana conducts academy and in-service training sessions, equipping officers with the tools to serve their communities with empathy and professionalism.

A proud native of Brooklyn, NY, Quiana holds a graduate degree in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago and an undergraduate degree in English and Theatre from Gettysburg College. Her passion for community building and power sharing drives her commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. She began her journey in public safety as a college dispatcher, sparking a lifelong dedication to fostering trust and connection through service

Nichole “Nikki” North is the Southeast Region Director for the National Real Time Crime Center Association (NRTCCA) and the Manager of the Real Time Crime Center at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. As a founding member of the NRTCCA, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the organization, serving as President and Vice President of Administration and advancing strategic initiatives that support real-time law enforcement operations nationwide.

Since joining the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office in 2018 as a Domestic Violence Analyst, Nikki has demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational expertise, advancing to Senior Analyst in January 2021, RTCC Supervisor in October 2021, and RTCC Manager in 2024. In her current role, she oversees the strategic management of the Real Time Crime Center, implementing analytical solutions and operational strategies that enhance public safety and support law enforcement decision-making. She is a graduate of the Florida Law Enforcement Analyst Academy (FLEAA), class of December 2021, where she has also served as a mentor, cultivating the next generation of law enforcement analysts. Earlier in her career, she served as a telecommunications operator at the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office from June 2016 to March 2018.

Nikki earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Investigations from Keiser University’s Daytona Campus in May 2016, graduating as class valedictorian. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is a dedicated mother and enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs.

Mike Milstein began in local government when he joined the Chicago Mayor's Office in 2016 during a time when the City of Chicago and Chicago Police Department were under a Department of Justice investigation that later found severe practices of unconstitutional policing. Mike immediately began supporting the City's response to the investigation and early plans for reform, including the negotiation of a consent decree. Once implemented, he led the Mayor's Office's early infrastructure around the implementation of the new consent decree. In 2020, a week before the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Mike joined the Chicago Police Department's Office of Community Policing, where he led the Department's effort to engage communities around reform and impartial policing efforts. Since joining the Chicago Police Department, Mike has been instrumental in leading the Chicago Police Department's efforts to implement impartial policing practices. He’s worked with communities to create forward-thinking policies, trainings, and programs that impact many diverse communities, including the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, religious minorities, and victims of gender-based violence. In July of 2024, Mike launched the Chicago Police Department's Office of Equity and Engagement, a brand-new team within the Department solely focused on advancing and supporting equity and impartial policing throughout the Chicago Police Department. Mike additionally took over the Chicago Police Department's new Office of Victim Services, which includes support services for victims and survivors of gun violence, domestic violence, and other forms of gender-based violence. Mike got his start in public service by working on and volunteering for several political and social campaigns where he was an advocate for justice and fairness. Mike has a Master’s degree in Public Policy from the University of Chicago, a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and completed the Executive Program for Social Impact Strategy from the University of Pennsylvania.