I began my career with the Fort Worth Police Department in 2007. I currently serve in the Patrol Bureau as the West Division Commander. My previous assignments include being a District Lieutenant, Patrol Sergeant, Internal Affairs Sergeant, Administrative Sergeant, Field Training Sergeant, Recruit Training Sergeant, Detective, Directed Response Unit Officer, and Patrol Officer. I earned a Master’s Degree in Law Enforcement and Public Safety from the University of San Diego in 2018. I have served as a Mentor and Board Member for Operation Progress since the program’s inception in 2019. I was named as OP’s Mentor of the Year in 2021.
What motivated you to be a LEPSL ambassador?
I had an incredible experience attending USD’s LEPSL program and it truly made me a better person and leader. A big part of leadership is mentoring and developing others. Being an ambassador is a great opportunity to enhance career development opportunities for other law enforcement leaders by sharing what LEPSL offers.
Why did you choose the LEPSL program? What made LEPSL stand out in comparison to other schools/programs?
I took an in-depth look at the LEPSL program’s curriculum and compared it to other universities. The emphasis on leadership was the main factor that set the program apart from others. It seemed structured in a way that was manageable for working professionals.
What were your concerns about starting a graduate program?
The biggest concern was how to juggle trying to advance my career, be present for my young children, and still be successful academically. I didn’t want to “just pass.” I hoped to take away knowledge and experiences that would benefit me long term.
How did the LEPSL program help you achieve your career goals?
I started the LEPSL program as a Detective. Since completing the program, I have been promoted twice from promotional exams and then was appointed by our Chief to the Executive Staff team as a Commander. I have become more engaged with the community, more well-rounded, and started initiatives like our department’s Patrol Sergeant Training Program. I was also just selected to attend an upcoming FBI National Academy class.
What advice would you share with prospective LEPSL applicants?
I am always encouraging people to continue learning and developing themselves. Your education is one of the best investments you can make in yourself. This program will challenge you, however it is manageable and will allow you to serve others better. The networking and relationships you build with other students are invaluable.
What was your favorite LEPSL course?
Surprisingly, I enjoyed the Budget and Finance class. The class content required that I interact with personnel in the Finance Bureau and from that I decided to serve on the Budget Committee. There weren’t any classes I didn’t enjoy or benefit from and the discussion boards were great in every class.
What were you balancing while participating in the LEPSL program?
I had my second child the same month I started the LEPSL program. In addition to her, my son wasn’t quite two years old yet. My husband also works in law enforcement so there were some scheduling complications and stressors there. During my final semester in the program, my former partner was killed in the line of duty. My classmates and professors were understanding and supportive during that difficult time.
How did you stay motivated throughout the program in the face of competing priorities in your life?
With the program being only five semesters long it never felt insurmountable. The fact I enjoyed the program helped. I wasn’t quite sure what to do with all my time once I finished the program.
LEPSL Graduating Class:
2018