Join us for one, or more, of the other conference amenities. These "special events" are designed to enhance your experience at the conference. These events occur both during the day and evening throughout the week. Check the descriptions below and dates and times on the Full Conference Agenda.
Higher Education Challenge
2024 was the initial offering of the New Jersey Emergency Preparedness Association Higher Education Challenge—an invitation for our up-and-coming emergency managers to present their insights and solutions into the changing climate of emergency management.
We received amazing presentations in 2024 and 2025, we are looking forward to hosting the third annual challenge at our 2026 conference.
Agenda
This agenda is still being developed.
For more information on the Higher Ed Challenge click the button below.
Tentative Agenda
Under development.
Young Professional Engagement
NJEPA is proud to have an established Young Professionals Engagement Event which has occurred for multiple years. This session is designed for those who are new to Emergency Management or looking to get started in the field. You will have the opportunity to ask industry leaders questions about the field, get career advice, network and learn how Emergency Management integrates every industry in the public and private sector. Program elements will include a panel discussion with veteran Emergency Management professionals, a disaster preparedness scenario discussion, networking opportunities, and a chance to win free attendance at next year's conference.
During this great evening event, join us for the Annual Awards Reception! This reception provides an excellent opportunity to meet with colleagues as we honor current and future emergency managers during our awards program. This event will feature a plated dinner and cash bar. Tickets are required for entry and there will only be a limited quantity available so please remember to sign up when you register..
Visit the awards section of our website to learn more about the awards we present.
Award and Networking Reception Menu
(Three course plated dinner)
Focaccia, Sourdough Rolls, Crackers, Butter on table
Salad: Spring Wedge Salad, Iceberg, Bacon Lardon, Olive Oil Tomatoes, English Peas, Shaved Parmesan Herbed Dijon Dressing
(Vegetarian Available)
Entrée: Duet (Note: Dinner includes both options, but a single option, if you prefer, can be selected when you register)
Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib
Herb Roasted Salmon
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Baby Carrots & Haricot Vert, Red Wine Reduction
Vegetarian Option: Pasta with Vegetables
Dessert: Apple Butter Crumble Tart (Sugar Free & Gluten Free Option Available)
Beverages: Coffee, Tea, Decaffeinated Coffee, Iced Tea.
Cash Bar will be available.
Agenda
Opening and Flag Salute
Dinner
Event Program (Planned):
Welcome from NJEPA
Keynote- Colonel Patrick J. Callahan
Atlantic City Electric Award
Announcement of NJCEM Scholarship Awards
Presentation of Scholarship Awards
Presentation of Kevin H. Tuno Emergency Manager of the Year Award
Closing Remarks
Exhibit Hall
Come out, meet our vendors and sponsors in our Exhibit Hall inside the Etess Arena.
Join us for the Wednesday Vendor Reception and the Thursday annual Conference Luncheon. Both meals are a great opportunity to take a break from the training sessions, indulge in a delicious meal, enjoy time with friends and colleagues, then take some time to visit the Exhibitors. Both meals are complimentary with your Registration!
These events will be at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena
Hours of Operation
Under development.
Thursday Night Networking Reception
As the conference week is winding down, finish your Thursday with old friends and new acquaintances. This event will be a casual night to continue networking and enjoy some light food and refreshments. This event is open to all of our conference attendees, sponsors and guests.
Please let us know you will be attending this event when you register. Free to all attendees.
Continental Breakfast- Free to Attendees
Chilled Fresh Juices
Diced Seasonal Fruits and Berries
Vanilla Greek Yogurt
Croissants, Lemon Bread, Cheese Danish, Blueberry Muffin (varies daily)
Butter and Fruit Preserves
Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, Gourmet Teas
Refreshment Breaks and All Day Coffee- Free to Attendees
Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, Gourmet Teas- All day
Afternoon Break includes:
Soft Drinks
Assorted baked goods (varies daily)
Fruit
Vendor Reception- Free to Attendees
- Coleslaw
- Potato Salad
- Cornbread Muffins
- Biscuits
- Brioche Hinge Cut Slider Rolls
BBQ:
- Pulled Smoked Pork
- BBQ Beef
- Chicken Wings, Carolina Mustard BBQ
- Grilled Portobello, Peppers & Onions - Sauce on Side
- Loaded Tater Tots, Bacon, Cheddar, Scallion
- Seasoned Wedge Potatoes
Assorted Desserts
- Lemon Meringue Tart
- Pecan Bar
- Tiramisu Parfait
- Maple-Bacon Cup Cakes
- Sugar Free Lemon Cake
- Gluten Free Chocolate Brownie
Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, Gourmet Teas, Iced Tea and Lemonade
Cash Bar will be Available
Conference Luncheon- Free to Attendees
Spring Lunch
- Presented with House Rolls & Butter
Soup & Salad
- Chicken Corn Chowder
- Seasonal Mix Green Salad, Cucumber, Tomato, Sweet Peas & Artichokes, Selection of Raspberry Vinaigrette & Balsamic Dressing
- Chilled Grilled Asparagus, Grated Egg, Dijon Vinaigrette
Buffet Selections
- Sirloin Meatloaf, Roasted Tomato Demi-Glace
- Grilled Chicken, Spinach & Tomato Cream
- Roasted Salmon, Fennel-Orange & Lemon Butter Sauce
- Sauteed Haricot Vert, Shallot Butter
- Three Cheese Backed Mac & Cheese, Garlic Breadcrumbs
Dessert
- Mudslide Cheesecake
- Brownies & Blondies
- Apple Crumb Tart
Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, Gourmet Teas, Iced Tea and Lemonade
Thursday Networking Event- Free to Attendees
Boardwalk Themed Reception
- Soft Pretzel Wamer, Yellow Mustard & Grainy Mustard, Cheese Sauce
- Pepperoni Pizza Puffs, Marinara Dip
- Fried Chicken Tenders, Honey Mustard & Ranch Dips
Hot Dog Stand
- Hot Dogs & Potato Rolls, Diced Onion, Shredded Cheese Relish, Pushcart Onions, Sauerkraut, Chili, Yellow Mustard, Spicy Brown Mustard, Ketchup
Cheesesteak Station
- Local 6” Sub Rolls, Extra Cheesy Cheesesteak, Sauteed Onions, Sauteed Mushrooms, Sauteed Peppers, Extra Cheese Whiz, Hot Pepper Relish, Mayonnaise Squirt Bottles
- Cheddar & Scallion Tater Tot Casserole, Ketchup, Sour Cream, Bacon Bits
Sweets
- Caramel Corn
- Chocolate Fudge Cookies
- Peanut Butter Fudge Cookies
- Cotton Candy
- Funnel Cake Cupcakes
Freshly Brewed Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, Gourmet Teas, Iced Tea and Lemonade
Cash Bar Avaliable
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