The First Annual Howard C. Liebengood Symposium: The Evolving Law Enforcement Landscape and the First Responder Mental Health Crisis
September 17 - September 18
Private First Class (PFC) Howard “Howie” Liebengood was a 51-year-old, 15-year veteran of the United States Capitol Police, known for his dedication, integrity, and quiet strength. He served during the January 6, 2021 disturbance on the U.S. Capitol and, in the days that followed, worked nearly nonstop with little rest—enduring the kind of unrelenting stress that far too many officers carry in silence. Just three days later, Howie died by suicide.
His story reflects a broader mental health crisis in first responders, where officers are 54% more likely to die by suicide than the general U.S. population and report higher rates of PTSD, burnout, and anxiety-related disorders.
Recognizing the psychological toll of policing and firefighting has led to increased funding and resources for law enforcement health and wellness. However, significant disparities remain in resource utilization and health outcomes.
The Howard C. Liebengood Foundation (HCLF) aims to close this gap.
Our mission is to improve the health and wellness of law enforcement officers through interdisciplinary collaboration, education, and research. We are committed to identifying opportunities to improve workplace health, access to healthcare, and health outcomes of law enforcement officers, while actively facilitating multifaceted solutions.
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The Evolving Law Enforcement Landscape and the First Responders’ Mental Health Crisis
Many first responders are facing significant occupational stressors, such as fatigue, burnout from mandatory overtime, increased violence against police officers, a lack of support both from the public and within their workplaces, complex organizational cultures, and strained relationships with the communities they serve. The rise in mass casualty events, violent protests, and other on-duty challenges has only intensified these stressors, further undermining the health, well-being, and effectiveness of officers throughout their careers.
In response to this critical issue, this symposium will examine emerging trends, the shifting landscape of policing, and current events that impact the law enforcement community. We aim to foster a constructive dialogue on the evolving police climate and its implications for the mental health crisis within law enforcement. Additionally, we will explore actionable strategies to better support public safety agencies and first responders, with a focus on promoting organizational resilience and adaptability.
The symposium will feature a diverse range of experts, including keynote speakers, interactive panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to encourage collaboration among first responders, policymakers, researchers, academics, and mental health professionals.
Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg Center
555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20001
