National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems (NCPERS)

11/04/2026

⏰ Deadline Approaching: Participate in the Public Retirement Systems Study by Friday, November 6! https://bit.ly/4ibhtRp

Conducted annually since 2011, NCPERS Public Retirement Systems Study is the industry's most comprehensive examination of funding, investments, governance, and operational practices.

The study helps trustees, administrators, and policymakers understand emerging trends, evaluate peer practices, and strengthen retirement security for millions of public servants.

NCPERS recognizes plans that participate in the study with the Certificate of Excellence for Public Pension Reporting and Transparency for furthering open disclosure. Learn more and find out how to participate in this year's study: https://bit.ly/4ibhtRp

11/02/2026

Leading up to the November 3 elections, Tony Roda (Williams & Jensen PLLC) shares what may be in store for retirement policy when the 120th Congress takes office.

As pressure mounts to deal with the Social Security system's looming insolvency date and policymakers explore changes to retirement tax law with a potential SECURE Act 3.0, these are the issues the community should be watching: https://bit.ly/4iuiAO9

With Social Security insolvency projected for late 2032 and a 22% benefit cut on the horizon, William & Jensens’ Tony Roda examines how the 120th Congress could affect public retirement systems.

10/29/2026

The final day of NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference brought public pension professionals together to explore how thoughtful oversight, sound investment decisions, and data-driven strategies can help protect pension assets and strengthen retirement security. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

The morning opened with Fred Fox of Kaplan Fox Law , Nancy Kulesa of BFA Law, and Joshua Ruthizer of Wolf Popper , who explored corporate governance cases and the lessons they offer institutional investors. Their discussion highlighted how board oversight, accountability, and corporate reforms can inform trustees’ efforts to protect plan assets and members’ long-term interests.

That commitment to protecting members also requires careful consideration of how retirement benefits are structured and sustained. Aaron Chochon and Ryan Gundersen of CavMac Consulting, Jim Lery and Dan Harward of the San Diego County Employees Retirement Association, shared lessons from San Diego County’s 2026 launch of a cost-neutral Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP). Their discussion examined the practical challenges of implementation, the importance of actuarial analysis, and the governance decisions that influence long-term sustainability.

The conversation then turned to how pension funds can evaluate opportunities to grow and diversify their portfolios. Michael Halper, of ABS Global Investments explored late-stage private investing, highlighting the potential of established businesses approaching an IPO or acquisition and the importance of identifying measurable growth and clear investment catalysts.

Building on the discussion of portfolio opportunities, Vivien de Gunzburg and Elizabeth Fine of Ceres Infrastructure Asset Management LLC examined how pension funds can help finance critical U.S. infrastructure. The session explored the role infrastructure project financing may play in asset allocation, including its potential to diversify portfolios and provide an alternative to traditional private credit.

The final session connected these broader financial considerations to the retirement benefits public safety workers receive. David Polite of Professional Fire Fighters Local 1279, Drew McNeil of the City of Westland Policemen and Firemen Retirement System, and Nick Meggos of Aon shared how Westland firefighters used actuarial analysis to compare benefits, evaluate retirement readiness, and identify opportunities for improvement. Their experience demonstrated how objective data can help stakeholders understand benefit differences, support informed negotiations, and pursue meaningful enhancements to retirement security.

Thank you to our speakers, attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors for making NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and strengthen the public pension community. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

10/28/2026

Today, on National First Responders Day, we recognize the individuals who run toward emergencies, respond in moments of uncertainty, and serve their communities when they are needed most.

Their courage and dedication deserve our gratitude, not only for the lives they protect today, but for the years of service they give to their communities. Supporting these public servants also means recognizing the importance of retirement security after a career spent looking out for others.

As the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference brings public pension professionals together in Nashville this week, we’re reminded of the important role public pensions play in supporting the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and other public servants who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

To all first responders, thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your unwavering commitment to others.

10/28/2026

As Day 3 of the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference wrapped up, the sessions reinforced the many dimensions of protecting public retirement security—from thoughtful investment and effective organizational change to sound governance and personal resilience. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

Viraj Singh of Majesco explored the factors that distinguish meaningful business and operational change from technology upgrades that leave underlying challenges unresolved. Drawing on lessons from successful and unsuccessful initiatives, the discussion highlighted the importance of defining clear business outcomes, establishing the right operating model, executing with discipline, and preparing organizations for change. The central takeaway was that transformation requires more than new technology; it demands a willingness to challenge established practices and rethink how work gets done.

The conversation then turned to investment opportunities in safety-critical infrastructure. Anuj Totapudi of N2 Ventures and Peter Kuo of Komodo Fire Systems explored an approach to venture capital that incorporates elements commonly associated with private equity, including concentrated portfolios, active operating partnerships, and exit planning from the outset. Using Komodo Fire Systems as an example, the session examined investment in companies developing technologies for fire prevention and suppression. The discussion highlighted how investors can take an active role in supporting the growth of businesses working on critical safety solutions.

Next, Henry Wilson of the Wayne County, Michigan Employees’ Retirement System addressed the relationship between fiduciary responsibility and the political pressures surrounding public safety pensions. The session examined trustees’ obligations to act loyally, exercise prudent investment oversight, make ethical decisions, maintain transparency, and comply with applicable laws and regulations. Against the backdrop of early retirement needs, physically demanding careers, and healthcare coverage gaps, the discussion emphasized the importance of independent, actuarially informed decision-making. Strong governance and ongoing trustee education help pension systems navigate competing pressures while protecting long-term sustainability, supporting public confidence, and honoring commitments to members and their families.

The conference concluded on a personal note with Chris Vasami, motivational speaker, who explored how adversity can become a catalyst for self-discovery, resilience, and growth. His session invited attendees to reflect on how challenging experiences can bring greater clarity, shape identity, and strengthen self-leadership. The message offered a meaningful close to the conference, reminding participants that resilience is not only important for institutions navigating change but also for the individuals who lead and serve within them.

Thank you to our speakers for sharing their expertise and perspectives. We look forward to one more day of conversations and connections as the conference continues in Nashville! https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

10/27/2026

Day 3 of the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference brought important conversations to the forefront, from economic trends and federal policy to investment strategy and the operational changes needed to strengthen public pension systems. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

The morning opened with Scott Becker of Calamos , who provided an overview of the current economic and market environment. The discussion focused on key trends public safety pension funds should monitor and how broader economic conditions may influence investment portfolios. Understanding these forces is essential as pension leaders assess their investment strategies, consider potential risks, and plan for their funds’ long-term obligations.

The conversation then turned to the policy landscape. Tony Roda and Joshua Campbell of Williams & Jensen, PLLC, and Nicole Giambarrese of Ice Miller LLP examined federal legislative and regulatory developments that could affect public safety retirement systems. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, the discussion explored potential changes in Congress, SECURE 3.0 legislation, regulatory priorities, mandatory Social Security coverage, and possible Social Security reforms.

From policy considerations, attendees shifted their focus to investment implementation. Robert Harvey of Dimensional Fund Advisors explored the less visible costs of index investing, including trading activity associated with index changes, IPOs, mergers, and buyouts. The session challenged the assumption that passive investing is always low cost and underscored the importance of looking beyond expense ratios when evaluating investment strategies.

The morning continued with a practical look at pension system transformation. Anumeha Kumar and Doug Fowler of the Austin Firefighters Retirement Fund shared how their organization addressed operational challenges through changes to governance, staffing, vendors, pension administration technology, and member communications. Their experience highlighted the importance of long-term planning, proactive leadership, and engaging stakeholders—even when change meets resistance. The case study also explored the fund’s efforts to strengthen its long-term financial outlook and navigate complex pension reform discussions.

Across the morning’s sessions, a common theme emerged: protecting retirement security requires both an understanding of the forces affecting pension systems and a willingness to respond thoughtfully to change. Stay tuned as we have much more to come. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

10/27/2026

From boardroom decisions to protecting pension assets, the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference continued with conversations on the practices that help public safety pension systems deliver on their promises to members. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

Brad Kelly and Peter Landers of Global Governance Advisors (GGA) examined the role of pension boards in navigating competing pressures while fulfilling their fiduciary responsibilities. They emphasized that accountability rests with the board as a governing body and highlighted the importance of having clear investment policies and operational procedures in place. Their message was straightforward: effective fiduciaries must remain engaged, ask questions, and approach decisions with loyalty, prudence, and impartiality.

Building on the importance of strong leadership, Jason Mantas of Poudre Fire Authority and Kevin Lindahl of Fire & Police Pension Association (FPPA) of Colorado shared insights into succession planning. Drawing on the association’s experience preparing for executive and board transitions, they explored ways to preserve institutional knowledge, develop future leaders, and maintain continuity through organizational change. The discussion underscored the value of planning ahead rather than waiting for a leadership transition to occur.

The focus then shifted to the relationship between investment strategy and pension funding. Moderated by Jason Malinowski of the Seattle City Employees’ Retirement System, the panel featured Aaron Smith of PIMCO , Dan Scholz of NISA Investment Advisors, LLC, Michael Buchenholz of JPMorgan, and Dan Hougard of Cerity Partners. The discussion explored how evaluating assets and liabilities together can provide a more comprehensive view of a pension plan’s financial position. Panelists highlighted how reassessing both sides of the balance sheet can help pension leaders better understand and manage funded-status volatility.

The day’s final session turned to another essential responsibility: protecting pension assets from financial fraud. Derek Joseph of the Fort Lauderdale Police and Fire Retirement System discussed common social engineering tactics and the importance of recognizing suspicious requests before they result in financial losses. His presentation reinforced the need for vigilance, verification procedures, and strong internal controls to help safeguard pension funds.

Across these discussions, one message remained clear: protecting the retirement security of public servants requires thoughtful governance, prepared leadership, informed investment decisions, and continued attention to risk. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

10/26/2026

From investment strategies to the decisions shaping public safety pensions, Day 2 of the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference is bringing important conversations to the forefront in Nashville. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

The morning opened with a forward-looking discussion on the investment landscape, as Hank Kim, NCPERS CEO, moderated a panel featuring Stephanie Sorg of Meketa Investment Group, Robert Longfield of CBIZ, Inc. , and Chris McDonough of Investment Performance Services, LLC. The conversation explored market expectations, emerging opportunities, and the questions pension leaders should be asking as economic conditions evolve. Panelists also addressed audience questions about artificial intelligence and the potential implications of the upcoming midterm elections.

From market uncertainty to fiduciary oversight, the morning’s discussions emphasized the importance of understanding both opportunities and risks. Amy Fecher of the Arkansas Public Employees Retirement System moderated a panel featuring Serena Hallowell of Motley Rice , Josh Materese of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP , and Hannah Ross of Bernstein Litowitz Berger & Grossmann, LLP. Together, they walked attendees through the life cycle of a securities class action, from evaluating potential cases and considering lead plaintiff opportunities to navigating discovery, mediation, and settlement. The discussion highlighted the importance of understanding the risks of participation, working closely with experienced securities litigation counsel, and keeping pension boards informed throughout the process.

The morning concluded with a closer look at private real estate investments. Ryan Swehla of Graceada Partners explored how core, value-add, and development strategies differ in their objectives, risk profiles, and potential returns. As he noted, “Correlation isn’t always a good thing, but it does reduce volatility in the portfolio.” The discussion encouraged trustees to look beyond fund labels, understand their portfolios’ underlying real estate exposure, and ask informed questions about investment strategies and manager structures.

With more discussions ahead, we look forward to another day of learning and exchanging perspectives across the public pension community! https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

10/26/2026

🤝 Explore the Exhibit Hall at the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference! https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

The Exhibition Hall brings together organizations with expertise, services, and solutions that support public pension systems. Stop by to learn about their work, explore new resources, and exchange ideas with the organizations serving the public pension community.

Exhibit Hall Hours:
Sunday, October 25 | 5:00 PM–6:30 PM — Opening & Welcome Reception
Monday, October 26 | 9:30 AM–1:00 PM — Exhibit Hall
Monday, October 26 | 5:00 PM–6:00 PM — Networking Reception
Tuesday, October 27 | 9:30 AM–1:00 PM — Exhibit Hall
Tuesday, October 27 | 5:00 PM–6:00 PM — Networking Reception

Meet this year's exhibitors:
- Bernstein Liebhard LLP
- Berwyn Group
- BLB&G
- Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll PLLC
- Dimensional Fund Advisors
- Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc.
- Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Company
- Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation
- Kaplan Fox Law
- Levi, Ray & Shoup, Inc.
- Motley Rice
- Pension Technology Group
- Salem Trust Company
- Scott+Scott
- Wolf Popper

👏 Thank you to all our exhibitors for being part of this year's conference and supporting the public pension community. We encourage attendees to visit their booths, start a conversation, and discover new perspectives that may benefit their work. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

10/25/2026

Day 1 of the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference wrapped up in Nashville! https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP

The day opened with remarks from NCPERS’ Hank Kim and Sara Queirolo of the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System. Sara welcomed attendees and highlighted Tennessee’s commitment to honoring its promise to protect retirement benefits, underscoring the responsibility that public pension systems carry for the people who serve their communities.

Building on this focus on retirement security, Kelly Bush of Empower shared findings from Empowering America’s Financial Journey™ – Government, exploring the factors shaping public sector workers’ retirement readiness. While average savings rates remained steady at 6.4%, one finding stood out: engaged lower-income participants saved more than unengaged participants earning over twice as much. The research highlighted how meaningful engagement and access to guidance can help participants make more informed financial decisions and strengthen their retirement preparedness.

The conversation continued with an in-depth look at Deferred Retirement Option Plans (DROPs) and the considerations pension leaders face when evaluating their effectiveness. David Clark of the Arkansas Local Police and Fire Pension System shared practical insights into DROP programs alongside Casey Ahlbrandt-Rains of Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Co. Moderated by Renee Ostrander of the San Joaquin County Employees Retirement Association , the discussion examined plan design, funding implications, member behavior, and long-term sustainability, emphasizing the importance of weighing member value against a plan’s financial health and fiduciary responsibilities.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the first day. We look forward to building on these conversations throughout the conference. https://bit.ly/4iDy2bP