Prince William County Hosts First-Ever Community Safety Innovations Symposium

Prince William County recently hosted the inaugural Community Safety Innovations Symposium on Friday, June 13, 2025, at George Mason University’s Potomac Science Center. The symposium brought together public safety professionals, health experts, researchers and government leaders from across the region – including representatives from Loudoun, Fairfax, Richmond, Manassas City, Manassas Park, Spotsylvania and several other jurisdictions – to exchange ideas, explore emerging technologies and strengthen cross-agency collaboration to better protect and serve residents. 

Organized by the Prince William County Office of Community Safety, or OCS, the event reflected the county’s innovative, systems-level approach to building safer communities—before, during and after crisis. Attendees participated in panel discussions and breakout sessions addressing critical safety issues, such as domestic violence, gang activity, human trafficking and emergency communications. Experts shared innovative approaches to geospatial data, trauma-informed care and coordinated response models that improve prevention, intervention and recovery efforts across jurisdictions. 

“Effective safety systems recognize the need for an ecosystem approach,” said Dr. Tauheeda Yasin, Director of the Office of Community Safety. “Learning from one another and collaborating across sectors and communities allows us to address not just local challenges, but regional issues—while supporting our neighbors and strengthening the safety net for everyone.” 

The day-long event featured a keynote address from Milwaukee Fire Department Assistant Chief Joshua Parish, recognized for pioneering the integration of behavioral science, public health and technology to improve public safety outcomes.  

When asked about the symposium, County Executive Chris Shorter said, “Innovation doesn’t happen in silos—it happens in spaces like this, where people come together to learn from one another. Our greatest asset isn’t just a program or a new piece of technology—it’s our shared willingness to work together, listen deeply, and try bold, collaborative approaches that strengthen trust and make our communities safer.” 

Participants also took part in wellness activities focused on resilience and stress management, reinforcing the county’s commitment to the well-being of our employees in high-pressure public safety roles. 

The Community Safety Innovations Symposium is part of Prince William County’s broader vision to create a community in which everyone feels included, empowered and safe. By convening leaders from partner jurisdictions and multiple disciplines, the county is fostering an ecosystem of continuous learning and shared responsibility that strengthens the region’s capacity to respond to evolving safety challenges. 

 For more information about the Office of Community Safety and its ongoing initiatives, visit pwcva.gov/ocs. 

Watch the Buzz video for a recap of the event.