FBINAA.Oct.Dec.Digital.REV

ASSOCIATION PERSPECTIVE

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Joe Hellebrand

I would like to thank all of those that participated and shared your responses in our 2 020 Member Survey . Your responses are critical to our planning of future initiatives and training. This year, we collected survey responses from both sworn and retired members which provided valuable insight as we chart and plan for the future of the Association. As with all professional societies, 2020 was certainly a chal- lenge for us to continue our mission of “providing and promoting law enforcement leadership through training and networking”. After a series of pivots and rescheduling, we were able to turn some of those challenges into opportunities and conducted 36 education and training events (virtual and in-person) for our members, reaching nearly 10,000 participants. As we move into 2021, our hope is that travel and agency restrictions will be scaled backed and more in-person events will take place. Our plan is to continue moving forward to provide cutting-edge live education and training, as well as a series of webinars, podcasts, and virtual events all based on our updated Strategic Plan. Of course, as we saw in 2020, we will have contin- gency plans in place to still deliver programs virtually if needed. Plans for the 57th National Annual Training Conference this summer in Orlando are well under way. The Conference will have 50 plus hours of education and training, along with numer- ous networking and social opportunities. There is no question that next year’s conference will be an exciting event and a special thanks to the Florida Chapter and Conference Committee for their dedication and support in making it happen. We hope to see you there. Your involvement in the Association is critical to our suc- cess. We all have a shared experience by attending the National Academy program and when meeting a fellow NA graduate, all seem to gravitate to the same greeting “What Session?” I encour- age each of you to stay involved with your local Chapter, and to explore the many opportunities the national office has to offer, to include a new initiative designed to assist members who are transitioning to a new career after law enforcement. As an As- sociation, we have much to offer. I would also like to thank the FBINAA Charitable Founda- tion . This has been a tough year for all of us, and unfortunately, we have some members that were hit harder than others. From the pandemic, to natural disasters and personal tragedies, your Foundation stepped up and provided assistance to those in need. When you have a chance, please visit your FBINAA Chari- table Foundation website to look for ways to lend your support to fellow graduates through the Foundation.

Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity and thank our valued Strategic and Academic Alliance Program sponsors which provide essential products and services to our members and the law enforcement profession as well as vital support to the Association so that we may carry out our mission. Their dedi- cation to our Association never wavered. Please visit our website for a full listing of our Alliance Program sponsors or visit the digital version of this magazine issue which has a special 2020 FBINAA Strategic Alliance Program Index which features these sponsors. On behalf of the FBINAA National Board and Staff, we wish you all a happy holiday season and best wishes for a safe and healthy New Year.

“WHAT SESSION?” It's a unifying phrase – whether you’re sworn, working professional, or retired. Every member of the FBI National Academy has a shared story, a unique experience, and is a vital part of the World’s Largest Leadership Network.

Sincerely,

Joe Hellebrand, President FBINAA Director, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office

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