Lincoln University’s Safety and Security Expo Strengthens Community Preparedness

March 27th, 2025

Lincoln University of Missouri’s 2025 Safety and Security Expo, hosted by the Lincoln University Security Sciences Institute, brought together top security officials, emergency response professionals and aspiring public safety professionals for a day of insightful discussions and career networking. 



Held on March 5 at The LINC in Jefferson City, the event aimed to foster collaboration between public safety agencies, educational institutions and future leaders in security and emergency response.


Lincoln Univeristy of Missouri ROTC members are pictured in two rows smiling while at the Safety and Security Sciences Career Expo. The table sign in front of them reads, "Lincoln University Army ROTC."

Panel Discussion: Lessons from the Past, Strategies for the Future
The event opened with a highlight panel discussion featuring public safety leaders:

  • Chief Eric Wilde (Jefferson City Police Department)
  • Ms. Ann Bax (Retired President, United Way of Central Missouri)
  • Captain Nick LaBoube (Jefferson City Fire Department)

Three women stand and smile at the Lincoln University of Missouri Safety and Security Career Expo. They stand in front ot a table with medical equipment while in a gym.

The discussion focused on evaluating the response to the 2019 tornado in Jefferson City, identifying strengths and weaknesses and exploring current strategies to enhance emergency preparedness in Cole County. The panelists emphasized the importance of integrating local, state and federal resources to improve disaster response and recovery efforts.

Four representatives of the Navy smile and stand in front of a table with a blue tablecloth while at the Lincoln University Safety and Security Career Expo.

Connecting Students with Career Opportunities
Following the panel, the expo transitioned into a recruitment and networking session. Students engaged with representatives from various law enforcement, emergency response and military organizations. They had the opportunity to learn about career paths in public safety and security while networking with professionals in the field.

A Lincoln University student connects with a firefighter while at the Safety and Security Expo at Lincoln University.

Among the organizations in attendance were Boone County Sheriff's Department, Johnson County Sheriff's Department (Kansas), Jefferson City Police Department, Missouri Department of Public Safety – Office of Homeland Security, Missouri Capitol Police, Cole County Sheriff’s Department, City of Saint Charles, Missouri Department of Conservation, Department of Social Services, Rolla Police Department, Lincoln University ROTC, Missouri National Guard Recruiter, U.S. Navy Recruiter, U.S. Navy Officer Programs – Mid America, U.S. Air Force Recruiter, Lincoln University Nursing, Cole County EMS, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the St. Louis County Police Department.

Three men of the St. Charles Police Department smile while standing behind a table at the Lincoln University Safety and Security Expo.
Strengthening Partnerships in Public Safety
The expo underscored Lincoln University’s commitment to preparing students for careers in security, law enforcement and emergency services. By connecting agencies with aspiring professionals, the event helped strengthen the pipeline of talent entering public safety careers. View more photos from the Safety and Security Expo

A police dog from the St. Charles Police Department greets guests at the Lincoln University Safety and Security Expo.

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