[DAYTON, OHIO, MAY 23, 2024] – WGI Sport of the Arts, the world’s premier organization producing indoor color guard, percussion, and winds competitions, is excited to introduce Dr. Will Frankenberger as the inaugural Director of Participant Protection, a role that underscores our unwavering commitment to participant protection. His appointment, effective June 1, marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts to ensure the protection and enjoyment of our participants, staff, and volunteers.
As the Director of Participant Protection, Dr. Frankenberger will oversee all aspects of the participant protection program, including report management, incident inquiries, preventative education, resource development, and support to groups, Circuit Partners, and individual members. In addition, he will conduct a thorough audit of the current Code of Conduct and Participant Protection Policies, as well as other operational aspects of WGI. Dr. Frankenberger will also advise the board of directors, advisory boards, and steering committees on considerations impacting participant protection, ensuring a comprehensive and robust approach to safety within our organization.
Dr. Frankenberger’s extensive background in violence prevention spans over a decade. His work with fraternal organizations, collegiate athletics, and university systems has been pivotal in developing educational materials to combat sexual violence, gender discrimination, Title IX, restorative justice, and racial bias and equity advancement. As a trained Title IX investigator in K-12 and higher education practices through the Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA), Dr. Frankenberger brings a wealth of knowledge to our organization. He is a seasoned presenter on trauma-informed investigation practices and has published works on alternative dispute resolution techniques.
Dr. Frankenberger says of his work: “I am impressed with the intentional work WGI has put forward in the efforts to create safe environments for our performers to be successful, and I love the pageantry arts. Now is the time for continued efforts and work in this area, and I am excited to be a collaborator and catalyst for the next phase of this meaningful work alongside our community!”
“I have every confidence that the ideas and expertise Dr. Frankenberger will bring to our participant protection program will solidify our efforts in this area and propel us into a new era,” said Ron Nankervis, Chief Executive Officer. “His mastery of the unique needs of our activity, coupled with his professional knowledge, will undoubtedly lead to a brighter future for WGI.”
Dr. Frankenberger has a long and diverse marching, teaching, and adjudication experience in all areas of the marching arts and understands our community’s unique challenges and strengths. He has served on the Midwest Color Guard Circuit Board of Directors in various roles, including Contest Director, Vice President, and President. He lives in Chicago with his husband, Brandon, and their two cats, Finn and Marcel.
WGI welcomes Dr. Frankenberger to our team. He may be reached at will@wgi.org.
