FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LT. SARKO GERGERIAN ANNOUNCED AS KEYNOTE SPEAKER FOR 2026 REGIONAL CONFERENCE ON MENTAL HEALTH, RESILIENCE, AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Springfield, Missouri — The Psychedelic Society of the Ozarks (PSOTO) is proud to announce Lt. Sarko Gergerian as the keynote speaker for its 2026 conference, themed “Knowledge for the Front Lines,” taking place October 3, 2026, at the University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center’s Grand Ballroom in Springfield, Missouri.
The keynote announcement also coincides with the unveiling of PSOTO’s new organizational identity, a reflection of the nonprofit’s continued growth and renewed commitment to education, harm reduction, community connection, and informed dialogue surrounding mental health, consciousness, and emerging approaches to well-being.
At a time when communities across the nation are searching for effective solutions to challenges surrounding mental health, trauma, addiction, burnout, and public well-being, “Knowledge for the Front Lines” will bring together healthcare professionals, first responders, educators, veterans, advocates, researchers, and community members for a day of education, connection, and meaningful dialogue.
Lt. Gergerian is a nationally recognized police lieutenant, mental health advocate, educator, and speaker known for his leadership in advancing compassionate, evidence-informed approaches to community wellness and public safety. His work has helped bridge conversations between law enforcement, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community leaders seeking innovative solutions to some of society’s most pressing challenges.
“Knowledge for the Front Lines is about equipping people with tools, education, and perspectives that can create meaningful change in their communities,” said conference organizers. “Lt. Gergerian embodies the kind of courageous leadership that encourages us to think differently about healing, resilience, and human potential.”
“As we enter this next chapter as an organization, our focus remains clear: bringing credible information, diverse perspectives, and meaningful conversations to the people working on the front lines of community wellness,” said Joshua Wahba, President and Chairman of the Psychedelic Society of the Ozarks. “This conference is about equipping people with knowledge that fosters compassion, resilience, and hope.”
The 2026 event will feature presentations and discussions exploring topics including:
Designed to foster thoughtful conversation across disciplines and perspectives, the conference welcomes healthcare providers, therapists, counselors, coaches, educators, students, first responders, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and individuals interested in advancing healthier communities.
SPONSOR AND VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES NOW AVAILABLE
Organizations and businesses committed to health, wellness, education, community development, and innovative approaches to care are invited to participate as sponsors and exhibitors.
The event offers a unique opportunity to connect with an engaged audience of professionals and community leaders actively seeking resources, partnerships, and solutions that support personal and collective well-being.
Organizations interested in sponsorship or vendor opportunities are encouraged to apply early as space is expected to fill quickly.
ATTENDEE REGISTRATION
Tickets are on sale now — $65 for general admission, plus a $20 lunch add-on with the Shane Mauss Comedy Lunch.
To receive updates and announcements, visit: www.psychedelicsoto.org
ABOUT THE PSYCHEDELIC SOCIETY OF THE OZARKS
The Psychedelic Society of the Ozarks is a Missouri-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering education, community connection, advocacy, and responsible dialogue surrounding psychedelics and consciousness exploration. Through educational events, community gatherings, and its annual Psychedelic Freedom Conference, PSOTO works to create informed conversations that support healing, personal growth, and public understanding.
The conference serves as a gathering place for professionals, advocates, educators, and community members interested in advancing conversations around mental health, resilience, wellness, and emerging approaches to care.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Marisa Frazier
Email to: psychedelicsoto@gmail.com
