At Citadel Security, leadership is about more than commanding respect—it’s about earning trust, lifting others up, and creating positive change. That’s why we’re proud to share that our CEO, Justin Hale, was recently named a 2025 Idealist of the Year by City Year Kansas City.
This honor recognizes individuals who not only believe in a better future but take bold action to build it. For anyone who knows Justin, it’s easy to see why he was chosen.
A U.S. Army veteran who served for eight years as a Staff Sergeant, Justin has spent his life serving others—with courage, humility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Before founding Citadel Security, he led security efforts for an ambassador to the United States, putting his skills to work in high-stakes environments and always leading by example.
Today, as CEO of one of the nation’s most trusted private security firms, Justin’s mission has expanded: to empower the next generation of leaders. He launched a company-wide leadership development program at Citadel that equips employees with the confidence, tools, and mindset to thrive—not only as security professionals, but as community leaders.
That passion for mentorship doesn’t stop at the workplace. For more than 20 years, Justin has coached youth, high school, and college athletes, focusing not just on performance, but on character. He invests in his players as people, building confidence, discipline, and leadership that will carry far beyond the field.
Justin also serves on the board of the GP M.A.D.E. Foundation, an organization that supports children facing cancer, disabilities, and poverty—issues close to his heart. Having grown up in a low-income household and supported his brother through a cancer diagnosis, Justin understands firsthand the importance of showing up, lifting up, and giving back.
On April 16, Justin was honored alongside fellow changemakers at City Year’s annual Idealist Gala. We’re incredibly proud of this well-deserved recognition and grateful for his continued leadership—both within our company and our community.
About City Year Kansas City
City Year Kansas City partners with Kansas City Public Schools to help students stay on track to graduate. Through dedicated AmeriCorps members serving as student success coaches, the organization works to reduce absenteeism, improve behavior, and boost performance in math and English—helping more students unlock brighter futures.
To learn more about how you can support City Year’s mission, visit City Year Kansas City.
