HAPCOA Announces Strategic Postponement of 51st National Law Enforcement Training Symposium

After careful consideration, the National Board of the Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association (HAPCOA) has voted to postpone the 51st National Law Enforcement Training Symposium, originally scheduled for May 5–7, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona.

Federal law enforcement professionals historically represent more than half of our symposium attendees. We have recently been advised that several federal agencies will not be authorizing or funding attendance at this year’s event. As a result, projected participation has been significantly impacted.

This development was unforeseen and outside of HAPCOA’s control. However, rather than proceed with a conference that would not meet the standard of excellence our members expect, the Board determined that postponement is the most responsible and forward-thinking decision.

This pause also provides an opportunity for strategic reassessment. The law enforcement profession and the association landscape continue to evolve. HAPCOA remains committed to evaluating how we deliver value to our members — whether through future in-person training, expanded virtual platforms, strengthened partnerships, or other innovative models that ensure sustainability and meaningful impact.

We are proud of HAPCOA’s more than 50-year legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service to the profession. That legacy deserves thoughtful stewardship as we plan the next chapter.

Additional information regarding the postponed symposium will be shared in the coming weeks. For immediate questions, please contact Mary Cox, Symposium Coordinator, at hapcoaconf@yahoo.com.