A large part of the mission of the Florida Sheriffs Association is to host annual events that provide a venue for training, sharing and learning. Each event is specifically designed to gather a targeted audience of specific law enforcement personnel and those who directly support their work. Of these events, the annual Executive Leadership Conference and Fleet Exposition was created to provide training for every team member working in sheriffs’ office across the state.  

This year’s Executive Leadership Conference was held Oct. 17-19 at Trump National Doral Miami and was graciously hosted by Miami-Dade Police Department’s Director Alfredo Ramirez III. Couldn’t make it out? Here’s what you missed at this year’s exciting event. 

Fleet Exposition 

During the Fleet Exposition, participating counties showcase the graphic designs of their police rated vehicles, heavy equipment and fire rescue and emergency service vehicles. We also get to recognize the winners of the  graphic design photo contest  for their effort and creativity. This year’s winners certainly did not disappoint. 

Administrative Vehicle Graphics Contest 

2022 Winner: The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office School Resource Officer at Lemon Bay High School scored a win in the Administrative Vehicle category with their colorful tribute to the Lemon Bay High manta ray mascot. 

Law Enforcement Vehicle Graphics Contest 

2022 Winner: The Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office set themselves apart and took the Law Enforcement Vehicle win with a sleek, clean, all-white design. 

Education and Training 

Participants at the Executive Leadership Conference benefitted from valuable training, including roundtable discussions and insight from subject matter experts in the field. Three distinguished keynote speakers discussed topics relevant to today’s sheriffs’ offices and staff across the state. 

The first speaker, George Piro, previously served as a special agent in charge for the FBI and was the team leader of the Saddam Hussein Interrogation Team. He spoke to the ELC audience about effective leadership and crisis management. Next, Rachel Joy Baribeau, a former sports broadcaster and founder of #ImChangingtheNarrative, an initiative to promote positive mental health, discussed how to change the narrative and find purpose in life. Finally, Rich Diviney, with 20-plus years’ experience as a Navy Seal officer, shared what he believes are the key attributes of success and how to create better and more effective teams. 

Awards and Recognition 

In addition to training, the Executive Leadership Conference includes a time to recognize exemplary leadership in support of the Office of Sheriff in Florida. This year, two deserving recipients were highlighted for their work. 

First, Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson was awarded the FSA President's Award. President Simpson has shown tremendous leadership, faith and support for the law enforcement community, especially over the last two years during his time as president. 

Second, FSA Jail Services Coordinator Isaiah Dennard received the Distinguished Service Award for his dedication to the advancement and professionalism of Florida’s jails. The award was presented by FSA President, Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis. 

Stay Informed with FSA 

The Florida Sheriffs Association hosts three major conferences each year to recognize and support the work of Florida sheriffs and their staffs, including the popular Executive Leadership Conference. If you are interested in more information regarding ELC or the sheriffs’ conferences, please visit this page to sign up for alerts when information becomes available. In the meantime, you can also subscribe to our free weekly e-Newsletter to learn about other upcoming FSA events.  

Not a member? Joining the Florida Sheriffs Association is a tangible way to express your support for the work that our Sheriffs do to protect families like yours every day. Click here to learn more.