06/09/2026
This was one of the most enjoyable and meaningful symposiums I've attended in my professional career thus far! The topics covered, the speakers who informed and educated us, the resources provided, the organizers who connected all of us and planned every detail so thoughtfully, everyone who made the experience possible, and the invaluable camaraderie and connection that developed during the in between moments were the complete package. A fellow attendee I was fortunate enough to connect with conceptualized it as feeling more like a retreat than a symposium and that was a perfect way to describe it ππ»
I'm grateful for the entire experience and appreciate the efforts of everyone who made it possible. It was an honor to witness the personal stories that were shared and to walk alongside first responders, fellow clinicians, and every other professional in the room while we learned, laughed, grew, became inspired, and maybe even confronted some hard truths together. I look forward to attending again in the future and to applying what I've gained from the experience to further support my clients and advocate for first responder health and wellness β€οΈβπ₯
βββββ 5 out of 5 stars...will become a better clinician here again π
π¨ Attention 2026 Mental Wellness Symposium Attendees π¨
A Letter of Gratitude to Our Attendees, Vendors, Presenters, and Staff
As I sat Friday morning with a cup of coffee, I found myself thinking about what an incredible experience this yearβs First Responder Center for Excellence Mental Wellness Conference truly was.
I thought about the outstanding presentations that challenged us to think differently and inspired us to do better. I reflected on the thoughtful conversations in hallways, meeting rooms, and over meals. I smiled as I remembered reconnecting with friends and forming many new friendships. I thought about the after-hours events filled with laughter, camaraderie, and genuine connection.
Most of all, I thought about the people who made it all possible.
To our attendees, thank you for investing your time, energy, and passion into improving the health, wellness, and safety of those who serve. Your engagement, questions, ideas, and willingness to share your experiences are what make this conference so meaningful. You are the reason we gather.
To our presenters, thank you for your expertise, preparation, and commitment to advancing our profession. The knowledge and lessons you shared will continue to impact first responders long after everyone has returned home.
To our vendors and sponsors, thank you for your partnership and support. Your commitment to serving the first responder community helps make events like this possible and provides valuable resources, services, and solutions for those on the front lines.
To our staff and FRCE Board, thank you for the countless hours spent behind the scenes. While attendees often see only the finished product, I know the dedication, hard work, and attention to detail required to create an event of this magnitude. Your efforts did not go unnoticed. Thank you for caring.
Most importantly, thank you to every person who attended. I see you! I see your commitment to making a difference in your organizations and communities. I see your passion for improving the lives of first responders. I see your willingness to learn, share, and collaborate.
For that, I offer my sincere and humble gratitude.
My cup is full.
As I traveled home, we secured a location for next yearβs conference. We are already excited about what lies ahead and look forward to sharing more details in the coming months.
Until then, thank you for being part of this mission, part of this team, and for being a difference-maker.
Thank you for your friendship, your support, and your dedication to those who serve.
We are stronger together.