From Oct. 5-10, PSA brought together 165 attendees across 56 owner and member companies in Rome and Florence, Italy, for the annual executive leadership event, PSA Convention. This year’s event paired iconic destinations, exceptional cuisine and immersive cultural experiences with meaningful opportunities to connect with industry peers. With a focus on relationship-building and shared experiences, attendees explored Italy’s rich history and culture while strengthening the partnerships that make the PSA community thrive.
Mark your calendars! PSA Convention 2027 is heading to Maui, Hawaii next October.
Rome Highlights
PSA Convention started in Rome on Monday, Oct. 5, with a welcome dinner at the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi. The evening set the tone for the week ahead, giving longtime industry friends an opportunity to reconnect and new relationships a chance to take shape.
On Tuesday, Oct. 6, attendees chose between two excursions sponsored by Zenitel: a visit to the Castel Gandolfo Papal Gardens or an experience at Cantine Santa Benedetta.
At the Papal Gardens, attendees explored the stunning private gardens of the Pope and indulged in an olive oil tasting featuring locally produced oil, followed by a delicious lunch at Pagnanelli Restaurant overlooking Lake Albano and a wine tasting in the restaurant’s historic cellar.
Meanwhile, attendees visiting Cantine Santa Benedetta, the oldest winery in Castelli Romani, toured the vineyards and sampled estate wines with fresh bread and olive oil. The excursion also featured a live pasta-making demonstration, giving attendees the opportunity to try their fresh pasta themselves.
Both excursions offered a taste of authentic Italian culture, combining local flavors, historic settings and opportunities to build connections with fellow industry leaders.
Wednesday, Oct. 7, offered several excursion opportunities to discover Rome’s rich history, art and culture. From walking through the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona, to discovering the artistry of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, attendees experienced the many layers of Rome. Additional excursions delved into ancient Rome’s past through visits to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, while an underground exploration of Piazza Navona revealed the archaeological discoveries hidden beneath the city’s vibrant streets.
Florence Highlights
After exploring Rome, attendees traveled by train to Florence for the second half of their PSA Convention experience. Known for its Renaissance art, architectural beauty and celebrated Tuscan cuisine, Florence provided a memorable backdrop for continued connection and exploration.
Several excursions invited attendees to discover the city’s rich cultural heritage. A private walking tour introduced iconic landmarks such as the Duomo, Piazza della Repubblica and Ponte Vecchio, offering a glimpse into the city’s elegant streets and historic charm.
Art enthusiasts explored the masterpieces of the Renaissance at the Uffizi Gallery and followed in Michelangelo’s footsteps through visits to significant cultural landmarks, including the Galleria dell’Accademia and Basilica of Santa Croce.
For a more hands-on experience, attendees participated in a cooking class at Desinare, located within the Riccardo Barthel showroom. The excursion allowed guests to roll up their sleeves to prepare Italian cuisine before enjoying a group lunch.
From world-renowned art and architecture to hands-on culinary experiences, the Florence excursions offered something for everyone while creating more opportunities for attendees to connect beyond a conference room.
Awards Dinner at Villa Miani
The annual PSA Convention Awards Dinner brought attendees together at Villa Miani for an unforgettable evening overlooking Rome. With live music, a cocktail hour and spectacular views of the Eternal City, the evening celebrated the achievements, relationships and partnerships that strengthen the PSA community.
“Walking onto the properties for the Awards Dinner and the Florence Villa were a magical experience,” said Mike DeVita III with Allied Universal Technologies. “The views, music, drinks and food were outstanding and memorable.”
The Awards Dinner recognized integrators who continue to raise the bar for security and systems integration. From celebrating member loyalty to honoring a lasting industry legacy, this year’s awards highlighted the people and partnerships driving the PSA community forward.
Hang 10 Awards
PSA’s annual Hang 10 Awards recognize PSA’s top 10 purchasing members for the fiscal year. These companies play an important role in strengthening the network and exemplify the collaborative spirit that makes the PSA community thrive.
Congratulations to Pavion, Tech Systems, Minuteman Security & Life Safety, SAGE Integration, Allied Universal Technology Services, Convergint, Unlimited Technology, Alscan, Securityhunter and CBX Solutions!
Lighthouse Award
The Lighthouse Award recognizes the integrator with the highest member engagement scorecard ranking, celebrating an organization that leads by example and inspires others through active participation and dedication.
Congratulations to Minuteman Security & Life Safety!
Allen Riggs (PSA), Candice Aragon (PSA), Kyle Anglin (Minuteman Security & Life Safety), Ron Oetjen (Minuteman Security & Life Safety), Matt Barnette (PSA)
Tide Setter Award
The Tide Setter Award honors a company that goes above and beyond to strengthen the PSA network by helping shape programs, sharing insights and contributing ideas that move the community forward. With the highest level of PSA committee participation across the network, this year’s recipient exemplifies the power of collaboration and member involvement.
Congratulations to SAGE Integration!
Candice Aragon (PSA), Allen Riggs (PSA), John Nemerofsky (SAGE Integration), Matt Barnette (PSA)
Anchor Award
The Anchor Award honors a company whose loyalty, partnership and commitment to PSA have remained steadfast over the years. Through industry changes and continued growth, this recipient has served as a trusted partner and a cornerstone of the PSA community.
Congratulations to PSLA!
Candice Aragon (PSA), Gary Hoffner (PSLA), Allen Riggs (PSA), Matt Barnette (PSA)
Rising Tide Award
The Rising Tide Award celebrates companies that lift others up through collaboration, innovation and leadership. By sharing knowledge, supporting peers and helping others succeed, this year’s recipients embody the spirit of partnership that makes the PSA network stronger.
Congratulations to Alscan & National Network Services!
Candice Aragon (PSA), Daniel Tourtellotte (Alscan), Steve Nevin (Alscan), Jeff Bowlus (National Network Services), Matt Barnette (PSA), Allen Riggs (PSA)
The Big Kahuna
The Big Kahuna celebrates PSA’s top purchasing member. For more than a decade, Tech Systems held the coveted title before being unseated in 2025, setting the stage for an exciting competition. With the race remaining close, the anticipation was high as this year’s winner was announced.
Congratulations to Pavion!
Matt Barnette (PSA), Candice Aragon (PSA), Alan Rosenkoff (Pavion), Allen Riggs (PSA)
Paul Marcus Award
Among PSA’s most prestigious honors, the Paul Marcus Award recognizes an individual whose contributions have made a lasting impact on PSA, the security industry and the people within it. Named in honor of PSA founder Paul Marcus, the award is presented selectively to individuals whose dedication and service leave an enduring legacy.
Congratulations to Dan Budinoff of Security Specialists!
Since founding Security Specialists in 1978, Dan has dedicated his career to advancing the security industry through education, association leadership and advocacy. His contributions include serving twice as PSA Board Chairman, championing professional development and helping guide the organization through pivotal moments in its history.
Dan’s career reflects an extraordinary commitment to strengthening the industry and giving back to the community he has helped shape. Receiving the Paul Marcus Award is a remarkable distinction and a fitting tribute to his lasting influence on PSA and the broader security industry.
Dan Budinoff (Security Specialists), winner of the PSA Paul Marcus Award
Matt Barnette (PSA), Dan Budinoff (Security Specialists), Candice Aragon (PSA), Allen Riggs (PSA)
Thank You to Our Sponsors
PSA extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors of PSA Convention 2026 for helping make this year’s experience truly unforgettable. From thoughtful pre-travel gift boxes to exclusive networking dinners in Rome and Florence, our sponsors helped create opportunities for meaningful connections and lasting memories.
Your partnership goes far beyond supporting an event. It reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the PSA community, building relationships and advancing the security integration industry. Thank you for helping make PSA Convention 2026 a memorable experience for everyone involved!