A total of six professionals will be recognized for their leadership in addressing safety and security issues during the 2021 National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition set for Nov. 9-10 in Phoenix. This year’s theme is Reconnect. Reflect. Inspire. and boasts the most exhibitors and sponsors in conference history. The event is presented annually by the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) at The University of Southern Mississippi.
“The Emerging Industry Leader Award allows professional leagues, NCAA member institutions, marathon and endurance events organizations, and interscholastic athletics programs to honor individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in addressing safety and security related issues,” said Brooke Graves, MSCJ, NREMT, NCS4 Senior Training Manager and Awards Luncheon Master of Ceremonies. “These contributions involve enhancing safety and security at their venue beyond what is normally required and setting an example for other young aspiring sports security professionals to follow.
Each league or organization selects the criteria and makes the determination as to who will be recognized. Individuals being recognized include:
- Michelle Juehring, Race Director, Quad-City Times Bix 7 (Marathon/Endurance)
- Dena Scott, Director of Athletics, Fort Bend Independent School District (High School)
- Kory Dahlen, Director of Championships, Southeastern Conference (NCAA)
- Melissa Lesperance, CSSP, Director, District Command Center, Olympia Development of Michigan (MLB)
- Zoe Irizarry, Manager, Safety and Security, Major League Soccer (MLS)
- Sarah Mathis, Director of Fan Experience, Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)
For more information about the conference, visit http://www.ncs4.usm.edu/conference/ and for more information about the awards, visit /about/ncs4-recognition-awards/.