I began my law enforcement career as a patrol officer in 2001. I specialized in child sex crimes until I became a Sergeant in 2015. After I moved into a leadership role I created and administered my department’s official field training program. In 2022, I became MPD’s first female Chief of Police. As the Chief of Police, I have created a health and wellness program for officers and a therapy dog program that coordinates with the school district.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
I am excited to promote such an innovative and needed program.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
I chose the LEPSL program after searching different universities and curriculums. The USD LEPSL curriculum had the right mix of leadership and contemporary academic material.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
My greatest concern was finding the time to complete the coursework and adapting to online learning after being away from higher education for over 20 years.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
LEPSL has given me the knowledge and skills I needed to run a police department and remain at the forefront of current police issues.
What advice would you give to someone to be a more effective leader?
To be an effective law enforcement leader, one must be a lifelong learner who strives to improve and is open to new avenues of thought.
What was your favorite part of the LEPSL program?
My favorite part of the LEPSL program is the discussion boards. It is a great opportunity to learn from other students who have a vast amount of institutional knowledge. I have learned about new police initiatives, programs, and most importantly, where departments and leaders have succeeded or failed.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
During my time in the LEPSL program, I balanced work, two teenage athlete schedules, several police emergencies, and family obligations. I also balanced a police defunding movement while completing my coursework.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
When facing challenges in my career and personal life I reached out to my professors and was met with understanding and flexibility. Knowing that my instructors cared about my wellbeing and understood my challenges kept me motivated to finish my coursework.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2025