As I reflect on my term as president of the IACP, I am filled with deep gratitude and pride. This past year has been one of extraordinary progress, global engagement, and unwavering commitment to the policing profession. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve alongside you.

Our global reach has never been more important. From Bogotá to Brisbane, our international efforts have expanded in meaningful ways. We launched the IACP Training Center in Toronto, Ontario; engaged with the Colombian National Police in Bogotá on international rules governing policies and operations; and signed memoranda of understanding with the Córdoba Provincial Police in Argentina, the National Union of Chiefs and Directors of Local Police in Spain, and the Global Law Enforcement & Public Health Association, Inc.

We participated in the European Police Chiefs Convention and the ANZPAA Police Conference, reinforcing our role as a global convener of police leadership.

In addition, our advocacy efforts in the United States have been both strategic and impactful. We continue to work closely with the administration and key officials across the U.S. government to ensure that the needs and perspectives of policing are heard and addressed. We released a comprehensive policy priorities document, published guidance on immigration and executive orders, and provided policy recommendations on unmanned aerial systems threats and mitigation to the U.S. Congress and federal agencies. Our new legislative tracker and bi-weekly legislative updates have kept members informed and engaged. And, together with the Fraternal Order of Police, we celebrated a landmark legislative victory: the signing of the Social Security Fairness Act, restoring full Social Security benefits to law enforcement officers and other public servants. We continue to testify before the U.S. Congress on critical issues, ensuring that the voice of law enforcement is not only present but influential in shaping national security and public safety policy.

In support of this mission, the IACP, with support from the U.S. Department of Justice’s COPS Office, is launching a no-cost training initiative to help police identify and combat transnational criminal organizations. Delivered through the Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center (CRI-TAC), this effort equips agencies with tools to disrupt drug trafficking, human smuggling, and other cross-border crimes.

“Our international efforts have expanded… reinforcing our role as a global convener of police leadership.”

It reflects our commitment to interagency coordination, intelligence-sharing, and building safer communities through informed, proactive policing.

We also continue to prioritize officer wellness and suicide prevention. The National Consortium on Preventing Law Enforcement Suicide has produced more than 20 resources, with more on the way. These tools address emerging challenges like acquired brain injuries, fostering connectedness of officers in retirement, and the importance of mental wellness visits.

One of the many important ways we’ve supported the profession is through the work of the IACP Policy Center. We released guidance on critical issues such as the duty to intervene, cannabis legislation, vehicular pursuits, missing children, and off-duty enforcement. These are critical areas where safety, accountability, and clarity are essential. These policy documents reflect the latest research, operational realities, and the voices of our members.

We also recognized the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on our profession. AI is no longer a distant concept—it’s here, and it’s changing how we operate. In response, the IACP released new guidance to help police leaders make informed decisions about AI implementation. We published primers on both generative AI and predictive AI. These technologies offer powerful capabilities, but they also present potential challenges. Our guidance is designed to help agencies navigate this evolving landscape.

To deepen this work, we formed an Artificial Intelligence Working Group. This group meets regularly to explore use cases, assess risks, and develop robust recommendations for the field. We also set up an online community on the topic to make it easier for all of you to join the discussion, ask questions, and share insights.

But we didn’t stop there. We have made major strides in how we support you through a comprehensive digital strategy. At the heart of this strategy is the new IACP app, which connects members to training, policy updates, and networking opportunities. The app keeps you connected, informed, and engaged wherever you are.

We also introduced CRIS—the Chief’s Resource and Information Specialist—our new AI-powered knowledge assistant on the IACP website. CRIS is trained specifically on IACP content and delivers fast and accurate responses, helping you find the information you need when you need it. And in 2026, we’ll unveil a redesigned website and enhanced Police Chief digital magazine experience.

This year was also pivotal in the development of the IACP Chief’s Leadership Certificate Program, a landmark initiative to cultivate excellence in leadership and practice. Designed to support chiefs and aspiring chiefs, the program will offer a structured pathway for growth through three core modules: Leadership Foundations, Organizational Leadership, and Strategic Leadership & Public Trust. The first module is set to launch in early 2026.

Soon, we’ll move into our new headquarters at 3030 Potomac Avenue in Alexandria, Virginia. This will be a space designed to reflect our momentum and better serve our members.

Each of these milestones is rooted in a shared belief: that progress is possible when we work together. This year has been a testament to that truth. To our Board of Directors, committee and section members, and every IACP member, thank you! Your leadership and dedication have made this year a success. Your leadership, your insight, and your commitment have made this year a success.

It has been my privilege and honor to serve as your president. Thank you for the opportunity, the trust, and the journey. Stay safe.d

Please cite as

Ken A. Walker, “Year in Review: 2024–2025,” President’s Message, Police Chief 92, no. 10 (October 2025): 6–9.