2026 Sterling Prize Ceremony and Conversation with Dr. Rylan Simpson

Join us to honour Simon Fraser University professor Rylan Simpson, the recipient of the 2026 Nora and Ted Sterling Prize in Support of Controversy, in recognition of his groundbreaking and collaborative research that drives meaningful change in policing policy and practice.

From the front seat of a cruiser, Simpson has spent thousands of hours researching the inner workings of police. His work provokes controversy inside and outside of policing because of his applied focus and desire to work directly with police agencies as part of his research. Law enforcement can be a lightning rod for controversy, especially among those calling to defund the police. Additionally, police agencies can be resistant to having an academic inform policy direction.

“I got into this field because I wanted to make a difference,” says Simpson. “I wanted to try and impact policing and make it more effective, more efficient, more beneficial.”

Click here to read the SFU News story about Rylan Simpson and this year's Sterling Prize.

The 2026 Sterling Prize ceremony will include an engaging conversation between Professor Rylan Simpson, Barrie Police Chief Rich Johnston and West Vancouver Police Deputy Chief Nick Bell. Together, they will explore the complex challenges and evolving issues at the heart of Simpson’s work, offering deeper insight into his contributions and the broader questions shaping policing and public safety today.

Doors open at 6:00pm. The event will start promptly at 6:30pm, and will be followed by a reception, which all attendees are invited to join.

Please note: as of November 1, 2026, BC will no longer observe Daylight Savings Time. Doors for this event will open at 6:00 pm PCT.

The Nora and Ted Sterling Prize in Support of Controversy was first awarded in 1993 and remains committed to recognizing work that provokes and contributes to the understanding of controversy, while presenting new ways of looking at the world and challenging complacency. The prize recognizes work across disciplines and departments and is awarded annually by the Sterling Prize committee.

As this event is free, and free events routinely have a high number of no-shows, it is our policy to overbook. In case of a full event, registration may not guarantee entry. Seating is limited and will be available to registered attendees on a first-come, first-served basis.

Our community guidelines are intended to ensure the safety of all guest speakers and event participants, and to foster honest, socially accountable dialogue at our events. Thank you for respecting our community guidelines!

• Above all, there will be zero tolerance for those who promote violence or discrimination against others on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, age, or disability. Anyone who incites harm towards other participants (whether through chat, video, audio or otherwise) will be removed at the discretion of our technical team and moderator.
• Don’t assume pronouns/gender/knowledge based on someone’s name or appearance. Please refer to people using the usernames and/or pronouns they provide.
• Take space, make space: share your perspective, and make space for other voices to be heard too. Recognize that we are all here to learn.
• Practice self-care in whatever way you need to.