Wake Forest’s FIFA World Cup success highlighted at ACC Emergency Managers Conference

Amanda Chesser, assistant emergency services manager, represented Wake Forest at the 2026 ACC Emergency Managers Conference, co-hosted by the University of California, Berkeley and Stanford University, on June 23–25. Chesser presented “From Germany to Mother So Dear: Inside Germany’s 2026 World Cup Base Camp at Wake Forest.” The University’s success in hosting the German National Team served as a model for higher education emergency management.

Chesser’s session provided an in-depth look at the extensive planning, multi-agency coordination, and strategic partnerships that made the campus base camp a success. Over the course of the 23-day operation, more than 45 university departments and community agencies worked around the clock to create a secure, welcoming environment that showcased the best of Wake Forest and the Winston-Salem community.

Drawing on lessons learned from one of the largest and most complex operations in the University’s history, Chesser discussed the critical role of cross-functional collaboration, emergency management planning, logistics, public safety coordination and operational readiness. Attendees gained practical insights into managing a major international event on a college campus while balancing the needs of students, faculty, staff, visitors and the surrounding community.

“It was an honor to have Amanda join us in California for the 2026 ACC Emergency Management Conference,” said Jason Ferguson, director of emergency management at the University of California, Berkeley. “The 3-day event was packed with dynamic presentations on relevant topics facing higher ed emergency managers. Amanda led an engaging and insightful session on Wake Forest’s key planning considerations for hosting Team Germany as part of FIFA World Cup 2026. Amanda’s passion and expertise for campus safety are evident, and Wake is fortunate to have her on the team.”

Chesser’s presentation advanced conversations around preparedness, resilience and partnership while showcasing Wake Forest’s commitment to Pro Humanitate.