Educational Forum Series
March 12, 2026

Description:

A media subject matter expert panel including security subject matter experts. At the beginning of the panel discussion, the moderator will introduce each panelist and will then ask tailored questions based on the panelist’s respective expertise. The moderator will then invite the panelists to provide their particular expertise and perspectives for each follow up topic. Read more...

Pre-registration is required:click button below register. SEATING IS LIMITED!  
 

Join ISPA and Expand
Your Security Opportunities
 

Get more from being an ISPA member and tap into ISPA's volunteer network!

• Join a committee to help support and drive industry initiatives
• Broaden your perspective
• Network with industry colleagues and peers at industry events
• Grow your knowledge and expertise through exceptional industry training & education

"As a proud member of ISPA, I can attest to the immense benefits and opportunities it offers.  ISPA has not only enhanced my career but also expanded my professional network, connecting me with like-minded individuals who share a passion for advancing the security industry. The association’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge and best practices are freely exchanged makes it a valued asset for anyone serious about their role in security. Whether you are a seasoned expert or new to the field, the ISPA offers the support, education, and connections you need to enhance your career."

Michael Potter CPP
APEX3 Systems
ISPA 2024 - 2025 ISPA President
--------------------------------------------------------I joined the ISPA for a number of reasons and I want to share some of the benefits to membership. I’ll start with education. The ISPA hosts an ongoing Educational Forum Series that consists of both webinars and live speaking events. Some topics include artificial intelligence, active shooter, workplace violence, and threat assessment. As you can see, membership affords you the opportunity to stay current with innovative trends in the security industry, whether it’s an emerging threat like a pandemic or new cutting-edge technology like AI.

Another value to membership is the association’s Awards and Recognition program. Since joining the ISPA, I have received two awards and the professional satisfaction from being recognized by my peers—women and men who I respect and admire that have found me worthy of this recognition—is immeasurable. The ceremony itself is also a testament to how hard our colleagues work to protect their organizations and community and reinforces the importance of our industry.

There are also the Social Events including the monthly luncheons, annual golf outing and the end-of-the-year awards gala. These functions are great platforms for Networking, Relationship Building, and Business Development, which I believe is the greatest benefit to membership and that is the access to the professional resources of the members of the ISPA.

G. Michael Verden
The Lake Forest Group
ISPA 2nd Vice-President 2024 - 2025
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Being part of the Illinois Security Professionals Association (ISPA) has connected me with top security leaders, law enforcement, and first responders whose combined experience is unmatched.

Through ISPA’s partnerships with agencies like the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, DHS, Illinois State Police, Chicago Police and Chicago Fire Departments, plus its top level training forums has expanded my knowledge and strengthened my network.

Proud to be part of the “Voice for Security” in Illinois and to build relationships I consider truly priceless.

Ronald Vasser
Vanguard Security
ISPA Director
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DOWNLOAD ISPA MEMBERSHIP BROCHURE HERE: DOWNLOAD
 

Direct all membership related questions to ISPA at (224) 333-1622 and ask for Dennis Gano, Executive Director.

Nominations now being accepted for the 2026 ISPA Awards/Honors Gala

The culminating event for 2026 for the Illinois Security Professionals Association is the Annual Awards/Honors Gala! This is an ongoing tradition since 1961 and serves as the Illinois Security Professionals Association's cornerstone recognition event. The Gala brings together more than 430 people engaged in the fields of security, law enforcement, fire life safety, emergency management and homeland security along with many friends and family members. We gather to celebrate and honor the achievements of industry professionals who have gone above and beyond in the performance of their duties during 2026. During this event, we recognize the best of the best and honor two outstanding individuals with the Lindberg Bell Security Executive of the Year Award, and the Laurence P. Mulcrone Lifetime Achievement Award.

Nominations for 2026 Awards are now being accepted. Nominations can be submitted as either individual or as a group. Group awards are designed for two or more people being nominated for the same incident and award.

To review award category definitions, click here: https://lnkd.in/gk9ZUGhB

To nominate an individual, click here: https://lnkd.in/gRFz6Bnu

To nominate a group award,click here: https://lnkd.in/g46erTE6

The deadline to submit nominations is August 28, 2026.