Issue 175 - September 2026
NEWS: WORTHY
31st Annual Risk Management Educational Forum: Beneath the Surface—Dive Into Risk Management
Like an iceberg, many public agency risks lie beneath the surface. Forum attendees will have the opportunity to gain insight into complex issues, explore evolving risks, and learn practical approaches to strengthening their organizations. Below is a preview of the thought-provoking speakers, timely topics, and special events featured at the Educational Forum.
Featured Speakers
Our opening keynote speaker is Danielle Slaton, the co-founder of Bay FC, a broadcaster, and a U.S. Women’s National Team veteran. Combining real-world insights with stories from the highest levels of elite sports, she will share compelling perspectives and lessons on reaching your full potential. Fresh off the 2026 World Cup, her remarks will offer a timely perspective on leadership, teamwork, and performing under pressure.
More people have walked on the moon than have explored the underwater caves and icebergs navigated by Jill Heinerth. In the closing session, Heinerth will draw on decades of extreme exploration to share lessons on navigating uncertainty, adapting to change, and leading teams when the stakes are highest.
Educational Sessions
Educational sessions will explore some of today’s most pressing public sector challenges. Topics include ADA accommodations and modifications, executive decisions that shape liability, AI and automation risk, deferred maintenance risks, evolving police liability, human resource decisions that become claims, and more. Led by industry experts, these sessions will offer actionable insights and practical approaches to managing risk, making informed decisions, and addressing complex public-sector challenges.
Capstone Award
The Capstone Award is presented annually to an individual who exemplifies excellence in public sector risk management. Senior Management Analyst Kate Weihe with the City of Poway has been named the 2026 Capstone Award recipient. Weihe will be recognized for her outstanding contributions to risk management and workplace safety at an awards ceremony during the Forum on Thursday, October 8.
Learn more about Weihe in the Authority’s August newsletter.
Networking Events
The opportunities to learn and connect extend well beyond the educational sessions. Throughout the Forum, attendees will have numerous opportunities to network with colleagues, exchange ideas, and build relationships, including during session breaks, the Wednesday Welcome Dinner, and the Thursday night event at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Visit the Authority’s Forum website page for more information.
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