Georgia Association of Women in Public Safety

09/25/2026

🏆 THAT’S A WRAP ON THE 2026 GAWPS ANNUAL CONFERENCE! 🏆

Somehow, year after year, we find ourselves saying the same thing: this conference just keeps getting better.

Over four incredible days, we learned, laughed, connected, celebrated, challenged ourselves, and were reminded exactly why this organization and the people who make it what it is are so special.

This year’s conference brought together an incredible lineup of speakers and instructors who challenged us professionally, moved us personally, and gave us lessons we will carry long after leaving Brasstown Valley. From leadership and career development to resilience, tactical excellence, financial wellness, emerging technology, and powerful real-world stories from across public safety, there was truly something for everyone.

But what made this conference so special wasn’t just what happened at the front of the room—it was what happened throughout the room. Our attendees showed up ready to participate. You asked questions, shared experiences, encouraged one another, laughed together, stepped outside your comfort zones, and brought an energy that made every session better.

And behind it all was an incredible GAWPS Board that poured countless hours of planning, preparation, problem-solving, teamwork, and heart into making these four days happen. To our Board: you absolutely knocked it out of the park. ⚾🏆

To every speaker, instructor, sponsor, vendor, supporter, volunteer, and attendee who helped make the 2026 conference possible: thank you. You are the reason GAWPS continues to grow into something bigger and better every year.

We came together as public safety professionals from different agencies, disciplines, backgrounds, and stages of our careers—but we left stronger, more connected, and hopefully a little more inspired than when we arrived.

The 2026 GAWPS Conference may be over, but the impact of these four days is just beginning.

And judging by the approximately 500 photos currently sitting in our camera roll… 😂📸 we have PLENTY more conference memories coming your way.

Until next year, MVPs. 🏆❤️

Thank you for making 2026 one we will never forget.

09/25/2026

To our members:

After 12 incredible years with this organization, including the last few years as Executive Director, it is with a very full heart that I say farewell. This organization has given me friendships, memories, challenges, and countless moments that I will treasure for the rest of my life.

It has been an absolute honor to serve alongside so many strong, compassionate, and inspiring women. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to have been part of something so meaningful.

As I turn the organization over to our new Executive Director, Amanda Blair, I do so with confidence and excitement for the future. I will always carry this organization in my heart, and although my role is changing, my love and support for this incredible group of women will never change.

Thank you for allowing me to be part of this journey. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my life.

Cheri Akselsen

09/22/2026

🏆 DAY 2 of the GAWPS Annual Conference! 🏆

What an incredible conference it has been so far! 💙

We’ve already heard from some amazing speakers who have inspired, challenged, and encouraged us — and last night, we had the sweetest ending to the day with our Meet the Board Dessert Bar! 🍰🍪🧁 It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, network, enjoy some treats, and spend time together.

And we’re not done yet! 🙌 We have so much more to look forward to as we continue learning, connecting, and celebrating the incredible women and men who serve our communities every day.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make this conference so special. We can’t wait to see what the rest of Day 2 brings! 💙🏆

09/22/2026

We love you Kaitlyn Ross!! 💙❤️💛💚🩶

09/20/2026

🏆 The registration booth is ready… are you?!

We’re all set and counting down the hours until the 2026 GAWPS Annual Conference kicks off tomorrow at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa!

Stop by the registration booth when you arrive to check in, grab your conference materials, and get ready for an incredible few days of learning, networking, and connecting with women from across public safety.

We can’t wait to welcome everyone and officially get this year’s Most Valuable Player conference started! 💙🏆

09/18/2026

🏆GAME WEEK IS HERE🏆

The countdown is almost over…the GAWPS 2026 Annual Conference kicks off THIS MONDAY🎉🏅

Before you hit the road, don’t forget to:
📲 Join the BAND app for important conference updates and reminders ➡️ code FFR-8J6-F2
🧳 Check those packing lists and make sure you’ve got everything you need
🏈 Get your sports gear ready and come prepared to have some fun!

We can’t wait to see everyone at Brasstown Valley Resort and Spa! Let’s make this conference an MVP week!🏆💜

See you Monday!🎉

09/12/2026

Today, the Georgia Association of Women in Public Safety proudly recognizes the incredible women who serve in law enforcement across Georgia and throughout our nation.

From patrol officers and deputies to investigators, troopers, leaders, mentors, and every role in between, women in law enforcement bring strength, compassion, courage, and determination to the communities they serve each day.

We honor the women who paved the way, celebrate those serving today, and encourage the next generation of women who will answer the call. Your leadership matters. Your service matters. And the example you set continues to make public safety stronger.

To all of the women behind the badge: thank you for your dedication, sacrifice, resilience, and service. We are proud to stand beside you.

08/20/2026

🏆 WHAT TO PACK FOR THE 2026 GAWPS ANNUAL CONFERENCE! 🏆

We’re getting closer to conference week, and we want to make sure you’re ready to bring your MVP essentials! 🎉

Here’s your friendly reminder to pack:
🎱 Bingo attire
🩷 A muumuu or comfy loungewear
🪙 Patches & coins
💪 A great attitude
👮‍♀️ Business casual / uniform
🏆 Your favorite sports team attire

And most importantly… bring YOU! 💙

Get ready for an incredible week of training, networking, fun, and sisterhood at the 2026 GAWPS Annual Conference, September 21–24 at Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa!

It’s going to be an MVP-worthy week, and we can’t wait to see everyone there! 🏆✨

08/14/2026

Congratulations to Investigator Madison Felker on successfully completing the Semi-Automatic Pistol Level 3 course at GPSTC and becoming just the second female law enforcement officer to pass the course since 2000.

Your determination, dedication, and commitment to excellence continue to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of women in public safety.

Join us in congratulating Investigator Felker on this incredible achievement! 👏💙

Making History! This week, Inv. Madison Felker successfully completed the Semi-Automatic Pistol Level 3 course at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.

While passing the course is an accomplishment in itself, Inv. Felker’s achievement is even more significant — she is only the second female law enforcement officer to pass this course since 2000.

Her dedication, determination, and commitment to excellence continue to set her apart. We are incredibly proud of Inv. Felker and this historic accomplishment!

Congratulations, Inv. Felker! You’ve earned it! 👏💙

08/05/2026

🚨 It’s Here! 🚨

We’re excited to share the second edition of the GAWPS Newsletter! 🎉

Inside this issue, you’ll find updates on upcoming events, member highlights, conference information, and all the latest news from the Georgia Association of Women in Public Safety.

📖 Read the newsletter here:
https://gawps.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/GAWPS-August-2026-Newsletter.pdf

We hope you enjoy this edition! Be sure to like, share, and let us know what you’d like to see in future newsletters. 💙💛