Part of ZeroNow’s Conversations expert panel discussion series, this session delivers a high-stakes look at the unique challenges of protecting sports and special events. From high school stadiums to large-scale community gatherings, these events bring excitement—and potential vulnerabilities. Our panel of security experts, law enforcement leaders, and event planners will share proven strategies for threat assessment, crowd management, emergency response coordination, and integrating new security technologies. Attendees will walk away with actionable steps to close security gaps, strengthen response plans, and ensure the safety of athletes, performers, staff, and spectators—no matter the size or profile of the event.Guest PanelistsGreg ShafferFounder & CEO·Shaffer Security GroupGreg is internationally recognized as a Subject Matter Expert on the phenomena of Active Shooter & Violence. His best-selling book, "Stay Safe - Security Secrets for Today's Dangerous World" provides his extensive knowledge on how to survive critical incidents. He is a renowned expert on physical security, special event security planning & operations, executive protection operations & training, counter-kidnapping & travel safety, police tactics, and tactical firearms training. His twenty-year career in the FBI included six years on their elite Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) where he received enhanced training and worked alongside our government's special mission units across the globe, to include Iraq, Yemen, East Africa, & Southeast Asia.During his tenure as the Supervisor of the Dallas (Texas) FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, Greg was responsible for developing the security plans for numerous high-profile, high-threat, special events to include the NFL Super Bowl, NBA Championship series, NBA All-Star Game, MLB World Series, and numerous NCAA, PGA, NASCAR events.Greg is also a nationally recognized public speaker (www.GregShafferSpeaks.com) traversing across the U.S. providing lectures, training, and motivational programs to corporate meetings, trade shows, conferences, and board meetings.Greg has earned the Arlington Police Medal of Merit and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) Investigation Excellence Award for his outstanding investigative work on national security matters.Greg is a veteran of the United States Coast Guard where he served for eleven years and commanded the USCG Cutter Point Steele (WPB 82359).Charles ButlerDistrict Safety Manager·Rock Island Milan School DistrictCharles Butler is currently the District Safety Manager for the Rock Island Milan School District. He served the high school for 18 years as Head of Security and Family Liaison. His district is very intentional about safety in the attempt to keep all stakeholders safe.Chief Valdimir TalleyDecatur Public SchoolsChief Valdimir Talley serves as Chief of Police and Director of Safety and Security for Decatur Public Schools in Illinois. A 36-year law enforcement veteran, he brings deep experience in policing, investigations, and crisis response, including service with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. Since transitioning into school safety leadership, Chief Talley has focused on building proactive security programs grounded in prevention, community engagement, and collaboration. His work emphasizes training, communication, and preparedness to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students and staff.Support ZeroNow and ZeroNow's programs by visiting www.ZeroNow.org
