A total of nine professionals will be recognized for their leadership in addressing safety and security issues during the 2024 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition on July 9-11 in Phoenix, AZ. The event is presented annually by the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM).
The Professional of the Year Award recognizes a member of management in the field who has, over the past year, demonstrated outstanding leadership in addressing safety and security issues. In addition to the enhanced safety of their venue/event, the recipient’s contributions have set an example for others to follow.
Each league or organization selects the criteria and determines who will be recognized. Individuals receiving the award include:
- Scott G. Bliek, Assistant General Manager, Stadium Management Company/Denver Broncos
- Randy Buhr, Director, Championships and Alliances, National Collegiate Athletic Association
- Stacy Embretson, Senior Director, Operations, The McCourt Foundation
- Tevin Kellum, Security Assistant, Detroit Lions
- J.T. Klingenmeier, Vice President, Prevent Advisors
- Roy Pippin, Director of Security, Houston Astros
- James E. Seagle, III, Director of Safety & Security, Nashville SC/GEODIS Park
- Dennis Walton, CMAA, Athletic Administrator, Biddeford High School
- Harry Wilson, Head of NBA Events Security, National Basketball Association
“What a stellar group of professionals we are honoring this year. And there is no greater honor than being recognized by your peers. These individuals make a difference every day to ensure the safety and security of all,” said Dr. Stacey A. Hall, NCS4 Executive Director and Professor of Sport Management.”
The awards will be presented at an annual Awards Luncheon on the second day of the conference. The luncheon is sponsored by Evolv Technology, which provides weapons detection systems for security screening.
About the 15th Annual Conference
The National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition will be held July 9-11 at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix, AZ. The conference will attract over 450 attendees and 70 exhibitors representing professional sports, intercollegiate athletics, interscholastic athletics, marathon and endurance events, sports and entertainment facilities, and those who provide safety and security products and services to the industry. You can visit the conference website for more information.
About NCS4
Established in 2006, the NCS4 is the nation’s only academic center devoted to the study and practice of sports safety and security. The NCS4 is partially underwritten by grants from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The NCS4mission focuses on three key pillars – Training and Education, Research, and Outreach. For more information about NCS4, call 601.266.6183.