A NOTE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dr. Stacey A. Hall

GREETINGS, FELLOW SAFETY AND SECURITY PROFESSIONALS!

We are excited to present our summer edition of the Gameday Security magazine. This issue covers topics at the forefront of our industry, including vehicle ramming mitigation, stadium security design, and the utilization of facial technology solutions in sports venues.

The evolving threat landscape concerns venue and event managers as they consider physical and cyber mitigation strategies. Facility security design and technology solutions continue to adapt to meet security needs and enhance the fan experience. Facial recognition technology, in particular, aids the identification of bad actors, while facial authentication/validation offers a frictionless entry process for fans. In preparing for potential vehicle attacks, whether intentional or accidental, management must consider the protection of crowds and the well-being of participants. I hope you enjoy the articles included in this edition.

The NCS4 mission is to support the sports and entertainment industries through training and education, research, and outreach programs. The NCS4 continues to have a tremendous impact, and I would like to take this opportunity to share our progress on some items since the fall: l The NCS4 successfully hosted industry forums for the marathon and intercollegiate communities, with both events experiencing the highest attendance in forum history. Planning is underway for the Interscholastic Forum (January 2024) and the Professional Sports and Entertainment Forum (February 2024). Make plans to attend! l Two DHS/FEMA training courses are being recertified – Enhanced Risk Management and Assessment and Public Information and Emergency Notification. l A DHS/FEMA training needs assessment was completed in spring 2023 to determine new course development options. l NCS4 Learn continues to be a success with three eLearning options: Venue Staff Training, Crowd Manager Fundamentals, and a Senior Leader Course for Sports and Entertainment Security. l The NCS4 worked on a specialized eLearning course for Major League Soccer (MLS). l Over 100 certifications have been issued for the Certified Sport Security Professional (CSSP) program. l An educational webinar and a research seminar on severe weather are now available. l The 2023 Spectator Sport Safety and Security Survey Industry Research Report is in press. l The NCS4 staff and research affiliates presented at local, national, and international conferences, workshops, and academic classes. In addition, they have contributed to peer-reviewed journal articles, professional publications, and podcasts. l NCS4 executive director, Dr. Stacey Hall, published a facility and security risk assessment book for practitioners and academics. l The NCS4 is collaborating with DHS/CISA on a Vehicle Attack Prevention Mitigation Guide. l The NCS4 is leading a national task force on lightning safety for outdoor venues and events. l The 2023 Technology Alliance members include Axis Communications, Esri, Microsoft, NVIDIA, S2 Global, and Xtract One Technologies. l The 2023 Annual Conference and Exhibition has the most exhibitors in conference history. Additionally, a new young professional scholarship program was launched, with six recipients receiving awards supporting their attendance at the conference event.

The NCS4 team is grateful for our continued partnerships with government agencies, professional associations, and the private sector. We are also thankful for our extensive membership base. Furthermore, the National Advisory Board and Advisory Committees are a valuable asset to the Center, helping shape our strategic priorities to meet the challenges and needs of our industry.

At the time of this magazine print, we will be hosting our 14th Annual Conference at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. The conference theme is Level-Up, encouraging our stakeholders to strive for continuous improvement as we work together to positively impact the safety and security industry.

I hope you all have a fun and safe summer! l

Best wishes,

Stacey A. Hall, Ph.D. NCS4 Executive Director and Professor of Sport Management

Professional Development at Your Fingertips

Ncs4 Staff

Executive Leadership Team

Dr. Stacey A. Hall

Executive Director and Professor of Sport Management

Lauren Cranford Director of Operations

Daniel Ward Director of Training and Exercise

Management Team

Brooke Graves

Senior Training Manager

Traci Johnson

Instructional Design Specialist

Sara Priebe Event and Membership Manager

Jonathan Ruffin Training Manager

Tymika Rushing Business Affairs Manager

Jonathan Stanford Training Manager

Student Associates

Enzo F. Ferreira

Graduate Assistant

Aayush Gautam Web Developer

Liana Guillemaud Graduate Assistant

Natalie Williams Graduate Assistant

The NCS4‘s eLearning platform, NCS4 LEARN, provides opportunities for individuals and organizations to access asynchronous professional development opportunities. Current offerings include the following:

• Venue Staff Training

• Crowd Manager Fundamentals

• Senior Leader Course: Sports and Entertainment Security

Please visit the website or contact us at NCS4Learn@usm.edu if you have any questions or would like to inquire about bulk registration.