The Serve Strong: First Responder Resilience Summit 2026 is an Event for ALL first responders. Attendance for the full-event will earn a number of CEU's determined by each respective agency. Serve Strong and the planning committee are working with each agency to determine number of CEU's.
Wednesday, May 27th 12:00 p.m.. to 5:30 p.m.
12:00 Event Introductions
Resilience Training for credit (CEU's) for professional development, across agencies Historic Palace Theater Crossville, Speaker TBD
Special Documentary Screening and Q&A with filmmaker and area First Responder Leaders at Historic Palace Theater
Check back for a more a robust schedule. Official registration at this Eventbrite Link.
PTSD 9-1-1 is a powerful documentary and training resource that helps first responders, agencies, and communities confront, the hidden impact of trauma and build a healthier culture of support, resilience, and hope. This documentary screening has been held in almost 100 locations around the country across various first responder agencies, and has been the catalyst for important conversations. Please make plans to join us for this two-day resilience focused event!
*This important event is presented in partnership with Serve Strong: Corban Scott Goad Memorial Foundation and Cumberland County EMS. It is an event for all first responders across all agencies.
This is event is free but registration is required. Click button to register!
Did you know research suggests that due to their parents' high stress, unpredictable, and often dangerous work, children of First Responders are more likely to struggle with anxiety and difficult emotions while their parents are responding to emergency calls. Serve Strong is studying ways to help!
Serve Strong is committed to serving First Responder Families. The First 90 Registrants will receive a FREE Serve Strong: First Kids Backpack Comfort Kit for when you go out on calls. Each one contains therapeutic items and stress-relieving activities, as well as a special stuffed animal friend with message recorded by First Responder parents.
SPEAKER 2: CONRAD WEAVER.
Conrad Weaver is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, podcast host, speaker, producer, and director with a passion for telling stories that create impact. He is a mission-driven filmmaker, entrepreneur, and speaker dedicated to strengthening leadership and wellness across public safety. He serves as President and CEO of First Responder Wellness Solutions (FRWS) and is the founder of ConjoStudios, LLC, where he creates media and training initiatives designed to drive awareness, cultural change, and real-world impact.
Conrad is the creator and producer of the acclaimed documentary PTSD911, a film that has helped thousands of first responders and leaders start informed conversations about trauma, mental health, and sustainable performance. He also hosts the First Responder Wellness Podcast, where he interviews respected voices in law enforcement, fire, EMS, clinical practice, and leadership development to surface practical strategies that improve both people and organizations. A John Maxwell Team Certified Speaker as well as a trainer, and coach, Conrad equips leaders with actionable tools to build resilient teams, increase trust, and shape healthier agency cultures—especially in high-stress, trauma-exposed environments.
SPEAKER 1: DR. DERRICK EDWARDS PhD LPX-MHSP
Dr. Edwards is a Tennessee LPC-MHSP. He received his Master’s degree from Tennessee Tech University (2011), and is a Doctoral degree from Trevecca Nazarene University (2016). Derrick’s research focus surrounds the psychological impacts of being an emergency responder. He currently serves as an Associate Professor of Psychology at Tennessee Tech University where he operates the “TTU Responder Health Lab”. Derrick joined the fire service in 2004 and is a licensed Advanced Emergency Medical Technician.
SPECIAL GUEST: MATTHEW "MATTY " FIORENZA
"Matty" Fiorenza is a retired Firefighter/Paramedic with a commendable 22 years of service. His journey into the realm of mental health advocacy began a decade into his career when he faced personal battles with anxiety, stress, and depression, leading to a diagnosis of PTSD. This experience fueled his passion for aiding others in the first responder community.
Matty worked as Director of Development and Training at Recovery First Treatment Centers, Matty's influence is profound. He has co-founded a successful First Responder Treatment facility and continues to provide education, resources, and a pathway to healing for those in need.
Matty's expertise is multifaceted, including his role as an instructor at Santa Ana College, where he imparts crucial mental health knowledge to new recruits, equipping them with healthier coping mechanisms. His involvement with the Save A Warrior program as a Shepard underscores his commitment to suicide prevention.
Matty's advocacy extends to public speaking, where he addresses the escalating suicide rates among first responders and promotes mental health awareness. His collaboration with Dr. Gina Gallivan in developing wellness programs for agencies nationwide further showcases his dedication to the cause. Matty current works at Unified Wellness Center in Newport Beach Ca, as the Executive Director of Business Development and Cultural Competency. A First Responder only treatment center.
His story, a testament to resilience and recovery, has been spotlighted in the documentary "PTSD911," which we are screening at this event. As a keynote speaker, Matty delves into critical topics such as mental health, recovery from PTSD, substance abuse issues, and the importance of support within the first responder community. Beyond his professional pursuits, Matty treasures time with his family, including his wife Elizabeth and their children, Logan, Nathan, Charlie, and their newest addition, daughter Jordan. Together, they engage in community events and continue to champion the life-changing work of organizations like his nonprofit First Responder Peace & Refuge Foundation.
