Ilitch Companies’ Richard Fenton Receives NCS4 Lifetime Achievement Award for Leadership in Sports and Venue Security

Richard Fenton, Vice President and Chief Security Officer for Ilitch Companies, received the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security at the National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition, held June 23 to 25 in Palm Desert, California.

NCS4, based at The University of Southern Mississippi, is the leading organization focused on advancing safety and security practices for spectator sports and large public venues across the United States. It brings together professional sports leagues, venue operators, law enforcement, and security experts to set standards, share intelligence, and promote best practices in crowd safety and risk management.

“It’s been an honor to serve in a public safety environment for more than 50 years,” said Fenton. “I’m fortunate to work with a talented group of security professionals and for a company that ensures the safety and security of our guests and colleagues.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to an individual who has earned the respect and admiration of professional colleagues in the sports safety and security community.

"From serving in law enforcement to safeguarding fans at Detroit’s most popular venues, and now leading at an executive level, Rick’s career has been defined by service, vision and trust,” said Lashinda Stair, 1st Assistant Chief (Retired) with the Detroit Police Department. “This achievement honors not just where he’s been, but the countless people and professionals he’s lifted along the way,”

Fenton’s recognition builds on a long list of honors. In 2009, he and Ilitch Companies were recognized by former Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm for contributions to homeland security. In 2013, NCS4 and Major League Baseball named him Professional of the Year. In 2016, he was named one of the most influential people in security by Security Magazine. In 2019, the NCS4 program and the National Hockey League recognized Little Caesars Arena with a Facility Achievement Award, citing it as a model for venue security operations. In 2022, Fenton was named an NCS4 Champion of Change.

“Rick’s dedication, leadership, and impact on the security industry have set a standard for all of us,” said Mike Bruggeman, Chief Safety & Security Officer for the Downtown Detroit Partnership. “I’m proud to call him a friend and am inspired by everything he’s accomplished.”