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Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Summit
Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Summit
Goal of the Michigan Youth Violence Prevention Summit
Develop an understanding of the challenges related to youth violence and empower young people to share their perspective on effective prevention strategies.
The Office of School Safety (OSS) promotes strategies to encourage safe and secure learning environments that reduce threats, build trust, and improve the quality of life for K-12 students in Michigan.
Event Highlights
Get ready for a powerful day focused on student safety and empowerment.
Highlights include:
- Remarks from Col. James F. Grady II, Director of the Michigan State Police
- Inspiring presentations by recognized speakers, including Mr. Ryan Tillman and Mr. Anthony Grupido
- Interactive breakout sessions focused on coping skills, youth suicide prevention, and student-led dialogue
Photos from Youth Summit
Event Speakers
Our expert speakers will share insights, personal stories, and actionable solutions to create a safer future for all.
Col. James F. Grady II
Director of the Michigan State Police
Col. James F. Grady II is the 20th Director of the Michigan State Police, also serving as State Director of Emergency Management and Michigan’s Homeland Security Director. Since joining the MSP in 1998 as a trooper, he has held various leadership roles, including overseeing fraud investigations and emergency management programs. In 2020, he was promoted to captain and led efforts to modernize police training. Colonel Grady holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and criminology from Eastern Michigan University and graduated with a Master of Business Administration degree from Cleary University in October 2024.
Mr. Ryan Tillman
Breaking Barriers United
Mr. Ryan Tillman is a police officer, author, and conflict resolution expert dedicated to bridging divides between law enforcement and communities. As CEO of Breaking Barriers United, he restores trust in public safety through education, mentorship, and national initiatives like ChoZen and the “ITS NEEDED” podcast. Also a pastor, he inspires change by promoting unity, faith, and leadership.
Ms. Mary Drew
OK2SAY
Ms. Mary Drew administers Michigan’s OK2SAY student safety program. With extensive experience in school safety, she previously worked for the Department of Attorney General and Michigan State University School of Criminal Justice. Additionally, she has a solid background in children and victim advocacy working in both the Michigan State Senate and Executive Branch.
Ms. Julia Cohen
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Ms. Julia Cohen has worked with youth and families in diverse settings, including foster care, shelters, NICU, community mental health, and private practice. She specializes in suicide prevention, applying it in her clinical work and community trainings, including Youth Mental Health First Aid, ASIST, safeTALK, and AMSR. Mr. Javon Reese
Suicide Prevention Coordinator
Mr. Javon Reese is a Suicide Prevention Coordinator who trains community members, agency staff, and coworkers in suicide prevention. He teaches evidence-based programs like ASIST, safeTALK, and QPR to help people recognize and respond to warning signs.
Mr. Anthony Grupido
The Magic of Hope
Mr. Anthony Grupido is a renowned keynote speaker who partners with over 200 school districts annually to discuss mental health, resiliency, and suicide prevention. As a magician, he has performed worldwide and opened for major acts like Jim Gaffigan and The Impractical Jokers. With over 300 million views, he is also the most viral pickpocket online today.
Ms. Stacey Sharp
We’re All Responsible, Keep Every Youth Safe LLC
Ms. Stacey Sharp was born a leader and overcame adversity, serving two terms in the U.S. Army before returning home to support her family. For nearly 25 years, she has been an educator, specializing in restorative practices to reduce harm and heal relationships. As the founder of WARKEYS LLC, she empowers youth and educators to challenge harmful beliefs and create safer communities, driven by her unwavering passion and the support of her loved ones.