Virginia Crisis Negotiators Association
Enhancing the skills, knowledge, and professionalism of crisis negotiators in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Virginia Crisis Negotiators Association (VACNA) is dedicated to advancing the skill and knowledge of crisis negotiators through high-quality training, networking, and advocacy while upholding the highest standards of inclusion, diversity, safety and ethics.
Through collaboration, education, and continuous development, VACNA strives to promote effective communication strategies, ensuring the peaceful resolution of high-stress situations and the preservation of human life.
We are committed to fostering a network of skilled negotiators who serve with integrity, compassion, and a focus on de-escalation.
News & Updates
November 25, 2025 - Hampton Roads Conference Announcement
The James City County Police Department has announced the 2026 Hampton Roads Negotiations Conference will be held on May, 2025 from 8:00am to 5:00pm. The conference is free to attend and will provide training, case review and networking opportunities, and guest speaker Dr. Andy Young. To attend, please register through the link below. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
September 24, 2025 - FY25 1st Quarter Board Meeting
The Virginia Crisis Negotiators Association (VACNA) Board of Directors convened for its 1st Quarter meeting on September 24, 2025, during which several key organizational and operational decisions were made despite challenges achieving a full quorum. The board unanimously voted to appoint Melissa Foster as the Western District Vice President, and also unanimously granted two Associate Memberships. Crucial organizational progress was reported, including the confirmation that VACNA has been granted 501(c)(3) charity status by the IRS, though official paperwork is still forthcoming. Furthermore, the board decided to establish a business sponsorship program, setting a minimum donation of $100 for logo inclusion and a hyperlink on the website. Planning for the 2026 Virginia conference was advanced, with the goal of hosting a unified, Virginia-wide conference in late 2026, rotating locations around the state to maximize accessibility, likely starting in the central region near Richmond. Finally, the board initiated efforts to research vendors for a merchandise store and discussed the long-term goal of creating a scholarship for high school students who demonstrate de-escalation skills.
September 16, 2025 - Central Virginia Conference Announcement
The Chesterfield Police Department has announced their 2025 Central Virginia Negotiations Conference will be held on November 14, 2025 from 8:00am to 4:00pm. The conference is free to attend and will provide training, case review and networking opportunities. To attend, please register through the QR code or the link below. We look forward to seeing everyone there!
June 18, 2025 - 2024 4th Quarter Board Meeting
The VACNA Board held its fourth quarter meeting. Attended by five members, the meeting lacked the seven-member quorum required by the bylaws for new business, but provided updates and discussed progress. The meeting discussed the progress on incorporation, a preview of the VACNA.org website, an update on the 2026 Conference plan and some fundraising ideas. The next board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 24th at 2:00pm.
June 18, 2025 - VACNA is Official!
Today marks an important day in our journey to develop this association. Today the Virginia Crisis Negotiators Association was approved for incorporation as a non-profit corporation in the Commonwealth of Virginia. We are excited to have this association grow and look forward to the great things to come!
March 6, 2025 - First Board Meeting (2024 Q3)
The VACNA Board held its first official board meeting. Attended by six members, the meeting lacked the seven-member quorum required by the bylaws for new business, but provided updates and discussed progress. Key topics included the incorporation process, with research presenting LegalZoom as an option for filing fees, registered agent services, EIN, and more. Several funding methods for this startup expense were considered, such as board members contributing, selling merchandise, or offering honorary life memberships. The discussion on banking highlighted Truist as a potential choice favored for transaction limits and statewide accessibility, contrasting with LegalZoom's Bank of America partnership. Outreach efforts were discussed, specifically targeting the Western region and utilizing a new LinkedIn page. The board agreed to solicit logo ideas from members before a final selection vote, and began preliminary talks about hosting the first VACNA conference in 2026, possibly in the Central District. The next board meeting is planned for June 18th at 2:00 PM via Zoom.
January 24, 2025 - Founders' Meeting
A very exciting time for us! Negotiators from across the Commonwealth of Virginia met at the police department headquarters in Newport News, VA to officially form the Virginia Crisis Negotiators Association (VACNA). The delegation developed VACNA's bylaws, developed a mission and vision statement, defined regions and elected officers. Today marks an important day for the field of Negotiations in Virginia!