Page 16 - WBG Dec 2025

REPORT

WAD Centennial Conference

- A Historic Milestone and the Power of Associations

By Mike LaCorte

In September 2025, the World Association of Detectives (WAD) These moments reinforced what many of us already know: trust
returned to its birthplace, Chicago, to celebrate its Centennial and friendship built in these informal settings often evolve into
Conference. More than 300 delegates representing over 50 professional partnerships that define our industry.
countries gathered to honour a century of professional cooperation
and friendship and to look forward to the next hundred years of The Importance of Associations
investigative excellence. This Centennial was not only about WAD’s past, it was a powerful
reminder of the role associations play in raising standards, building
A Professional Programme of Our Future credibility, and protecting the reputation of our industry worldwide.
The conference programme was designed not just to celebrate the Associations are where codes of ethics are created and upheld.
past, but to address the realities of today’s investigative landscape. They are where investigators come together to advocate for
professional standards, exchange knowledge, and support one
I had the privilege of moderating the panel on Cross-Border another. They provide credibility to our work and ensure that
Investigations in a Fragmented World, where experts shared clients, regulators, and the public can trust in the integrity of our
practical strategies for navigating multiple legal systems, profession.
coordinating investigations in various jurisdictions, and building
reliable international partnerships. No individual investigator, no matter how skilled, can achieve alone
what we can achieve collectively through strong associations. They
At the Past Presidents’ Luncheon, keynote speaker Dr. Jeffrey are the lifeblood of international collaboration, enabling us to
Simon brought history to life with his reflections on WAD’s founder extend our reach, pool expertise, and learn from one another.
William Flynn and the association’s early days, reminding us how
far we have come and why our shared values remain so vital. As President of the Association of British Investigators (ABI), and as
Seminars and networking sessions throughout the programme someone deeply involved in multiple associations worldwide, I have
reinforced what has always been true: our profession thrives when we seen first-hand how vital these organisations are for professional
share knowledge, adapt to change, and build trust across borders. development and international cooperation.

Celebrating Achievement and Service The Centennial reminded us all that WAD’s greatest strength lies
The Centennial Gala Banquet was an unforgettable evening where not only in its history, but in its ability to connect associations and
we not only celebrated 100 years of WAD, but also honoured investigators across borders for the common good.
colleagues who represent the very best of our profession:
• Investigator of the Year: Fernando Fernández – for dismantling
a complex fraudulent mass-tort scheme through exceptional
investigative work.
• Security Professional of the Year: John Jones.
• Norman J. Sloan Award: Allen Cardoza.
• Hal Lipset Truth in Action Award: Dr. Jeffrey Simon.
• Honorary Membership: Karen Beers.

We also recognised a major milestone for WAD itself: welcoming
our 1,000th member, Harrison Fisher of Australia, proposed by Keith
Schafferius. Harrison was awarded a complimentary registration to
our next meeting in Casablanca in April 2026, underlining WAD’s
continuous growth.

The Social Dimension – Where Friendships Become Partnerships
The formal sessions were matched by equally valuable social
gatherings. The Opening Reception, a casino themed evening, set
the tone with a spirit of reunion and collaboration. The Ambassador
Reception celebrated WAD’s global reach and innovation. And the
Gala Banquet, set against the backdrop of Chicago’s tribute band,
provided a fitting stage for a century of memories, achievements,
and future ambitions.

14 W.A.D Beyond Global