​What year did you start?

2002

What did you do previously before WPD?

I graduated college with an art degree at WSU. I also worked at an art framing shop and a company that tested computer components.

Why did you want to become a police officer?

I always was curious what officers did and I was frankly a little nervous being around officers, so I attended he Citizens Police Academy and it changed my mind and that’s when I knew I wanted to become a Police Officer. I always wanted to make a change and by joining the Wichita Police Department I felt like I could do that.

What do you like about being a police officer?

I have worked in the community policing unit since 2005. I like that I have the capability and resources to get people the help they really need, whether it’s a bicycle to go to work or collecting gifts for kids in the domestic violence shelters during the holidays, etc. I work with seniors to help them with services and companions through our TRIAD program. I like going to community events, chatting with citizens, hanging out with the kids and letting people see that officers are human too. I get the opportunity to help solve issues that may not be criminal, but does affect the quality of life for people.

How has your experience been as a female police officer?

My experience in the beginning was a lot different than it is now. The officers I work with now embrace what female officers have to offer. In the past, male officers didn’t think female officers could hold their own, but clearly we are proving we can, and sometimes we work better with our communication skills. Women officers are just as capable and strong as our male counterparts. The female officers I work with are like sisters, they are family and always supportive of each other, especially females in supervisory ranks.

Why should more females think about becoming a police officer?

Law enforcement needs female officers, especially women of different ethnicities, races, and religions to help better reflect our community here in Wichita. In my opinion, female officers are great communicators and can calm a situation down with that communication. Women bring a whole new set of ideas and strengths to our department which is ever changing and evolving. Don’t think you can’t do this job because you are female, it doesn’t matter if you are 4’9 or 6’0, and we are all capable!