Office of Community Safety

This panel explores how multi-agency collaboration is reshaping efforts to combat human trafficking through a more unified and trauma-informed lens. Panelists will highlight the importance of building trust with survivors, adopting victim-centered strategies, and improving data-sharing across jurisdictions. Discussions will also touch on recent legislative efforts and emerging regional partnerships that aim to strengthen prevention and prosecution efforts. Attendees will hear from leaders across the spectrum of care and justice—including the Director of Human Trafficking Services at Safe Harbor, the Superintendent of Loudoun County Youth Services Center, and the Co-Founder and Therapist at Trauma and Hope—each bringing a unique perspective on how coordinated teams can drive meaningful impact in the fight against trafficking. 

Panelists:  

1. Alexandria Wall, Director of Human Trafficking Services, Safe Harbor 

2. Michelle Smith, Superintendent, Loudoun County Youth Services Center 

3. Deepa Patel, Co-Founder and Therapist, Trauma and Hope 

4. Tiffany DiBenedetto and Jamala Williams, Trafficking Prevention Specialists, Prince William County Public Schools  

5. Detective Abigale McLaughlin, Prince William County Police Department, Special Victims Bureau, NOVA/DC ICAC Task Force  

  

Time:   9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. 

Room: Multidisciplinary Room 

 

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This session explores how innovations across multiple organizations are transforming decision-making within fire and emergency services. From community-based care initiatives to advanced data integration and cutting-edge Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, agencies are finding smarter ways to respond to emergencies. By combining real-time data with mapped critical infrastructure and hazard zones, fire and EMS professionals can act faster and more strategically—before, during, and after an incident. Panelists include experts in EMS operations, community coordinated care, fire department leadership, Data integration product and development as well as geospatial analytics.  Attendees will gain insight into how these tools are improving response times, identifying vulnerable communities, and enhancing coordination during high-risk, multi-agency events.

Panelists:

1. Debbie Galligan, Director of Product and Development, First Watch Solutions
2. Assistant Chief Joshua Parish, Milwaukee Fire Department
3. Environmental Systems Research Institute
4. Amal Hajjami, Senior Public Safety Analyst, Criminal Justice Services

 

Time:   9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Room: Lecture Hall

 

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This forward-looking panel highlights how emerging technologies, and scientific breakthroughs transform modern policing and public safety. From forensic anthropology to the surprising use of environmental science—like honeybees detecting human remains—attendees will get a firsthand look at how creative, evidence-based practices are advancing investigations and reshaping crime-solving strategies. Experts from George Mason University’s Forensic Science Program, local police departments, and community-based violence intervention programs will share real-world case studies and discuss how research, field application, and innovation are coming together to build safer communities. This session also spotlights the role of GMU’s Body Farm in training and research, offering a rare glimpse into cutting-edge forensic science in action. 

Speaker:

1. Mary Ellen O’Toole, Program Director, George Mason University Forensic Department  

 

Time:   10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. 

Room: Lecture Hall

 

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Trauma-informed wellness session, providing participants with an opportunity to learn tools for stress management, resilience and self-care in high-pressure public safety and crisis response roles.  

• Monica Carlier, CORE PT Pilates

• Chair yoga, guided meditation, or stress management techniques 

 

Time:   12:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. 

Room: Classroom 3102 

 

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Trauma-informed wellness session, providing participants with an opportunity to learn tools for stress management, resilience and self-care in high-pressure public safety and crisis response roles.  

• Henna Ihsan, Healthy Henny

• Sound Bath & Meditation

 

Time:   12:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. 

Room: Conference Room 

 

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This panel explores effective strategies and multidisciplinary approaches to address gang activity and reduce community violence. Experts from law enforcement, public health, community-based organizations, and education will discuss evidence-based intervention models, prevention strategies, and real-world successes in disrupting cycles of violence. The panel will highlight the importance of collaboration, youth engagement, trauma-informed practices, and culturally relevant responses in fostering safer, more resilient communities.

Panelists:

1. GRIT Network, Robert “Tito” Vilchez, Arlington County  

2. Kate Reen, Northern Virginia Family Services (non-profit)  

3. Roberto Gomez, Cornerstone Craftsman (non-profit)  

4. Deepa Patel, Trauma and Hope (private)  

 

Time:   1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

Room: Classroom 3102 

 

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This session explores how cross-agency data-sharing is unlocking more coordinated, effective responses to community safety and public health challenges. Panelists will examine the growing role of platforms and the importance of well-structured memoranda of understanding. From emergency response to behavioral health interventions, attendees will learn how jurisdictions are breaking down silos and using shared data to better serve vulnerable populations, improve outcomes, and streamline operations. Speakers will also share real-world insights into navigating privacy laws, building trust across sectors, and sustaining long-term collaboration.

Panelists:  

1. Diane Anderson, DrPH, MPH, Prince William Health District (Community Healthcare Coalition of Greater Prince William) 

2. Heather Baxter, PWC Behavioral Health Manager, Emergency Services 

3. Heather Martinsen, Wellness and Prevention Manage

4. TJ Rodriguez, Community Vitality Officer | Community Services Unit  

5. Sarah Henry, Director of Outreach and Partnerships  

 

Time:   1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

Room: Lecture Hall 

 

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This session brings together leaders in coordinated response teams, public policy, and leading initiatives to explore how multidisciplinary teams can respond more effectively to domestic violence. Panelists will discuss the evolution and impact of fatality review teams, how jurisdictions are using risk mapping to identify and intervene in high-risk situations, and the role of data in shaping prevention efforts. The panelists highlight innovative strategies being implemented in Northern Virginia and across the nation to improve legal responses, strengthen family protections, and foster cross-agency collaboration. Attendees will gain insight from professionals representing Fairfax County, the Center for Effective Public Policy, and the Arizona State University Family Violence Center offering a unique lens on coordinated community response.

Panel:  

1. Stacy Ziebell, Program Manager, Prevention, Education & Coordination, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, Fairfax County

2. Keilah Joyner- Program Associate at Center for Effective Public Policy

3. Mark Perkovich, Associate Director, Family Violence Center, ASU 

 

Time:   2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. 

Room: Classroom 3102

 

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Effective emergency response begins with strong communication and the people behind the headsets and radios. This panel highlights the latest innovations in public safety communications, focusing on how 911 centers and first responder agencies are adapting to workforce challenges and community expectations. With perspectives from seasoned professionals in emergency communications, attendees will gain valuable insight into how agencies are evolving to meet today’s demands while preparing for the next generation of public safety technology and talent.

Panel:  

1. Tracy Zingg, Public Safety Communications, Assistant Director

2. Nathan Leazer, PWC Police Co-Responder Unit  

3. Kym Ludwig, Community Service Board Clinician  

  

Time:   2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. 

Room: Lecture Hall 

 

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