Virginia Fire Equity & Diversity Conference
WELCOME TO THE
The Virginia Fire Equity & Diversity Conference (VFEDC) 2026 is more than a gathering - it's a movement! We are committed to advancing professional growth, building cultural awareness, creating inclusive workplaces, and strengthening organizational development throughout Virginia's fire service. Together, we build a safer, stronger, and more inclusive future.
Different backgrounds. Same mission. A stronger fire service.
Conference Agenda
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
BREAKFAST / REGISTRATION
IALR Great Hall
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
OPENING CEREMONY
IALR Great Hall
Presentation of Colors (Danville Fire Dept Honor Guard);
Pledge of Allegiance;
Invocation (Engineer John Epps);
Welcome (David Cofey, Alonzo Jones, Ken Larkin)
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Dr. Melissa Furman
IALR Great Hall
Thriving in a Multigenerational Organization
Click to view the full schedule
Featured Keynote Speaker
Dr. Melissa Furman
- ✔ Generations in the Workplace
- ✔ Inclusive Leadership
- ✔ Overcoming Unconscious Bias
We are honored to host Dr. Melissa Furman for the 2026 event. As a highly sought-after national educator, Dr. Furman specializes in transforming municipal and public safety workplace cultures through evidence-based leadership and inclusive practices.
The Conference Venue
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research
150 Slayton Ave. Danville, Virginia 24541
Hotels
THE BEE HOTEL
420 Patton Street
Danville, VA 24541
(434)234-9440
THE HOLBROOK HOTEL
990 Main St.
Danville, VA24541
(434) 234-5040
THE LAUREL HOTEL
1076 West Main St.
Danville, VA 24541
(434)234-4190