Dr. Vereen Barton Assistant Division Chief, Director of Recruiting, Criminal Investigation And the Office of Accountability and Oversight

Maryland-National Capital Park Police

Dr. Vereen Barton’s life is a true testament to the power of dedication and service.  She has been inspired by her mother and visionaries like Aurora Lola Baldwin, she has been passionate and committed to serving her community for over 30 years.  As an International speaker, emcee, and a trailblazer for women in law enforcement and leadership, Dr. Barton holds a bachelor’s degree in arts administration and a Master’s and Doctorate in Forensic Psychology. Her incredible dedication to service began as a firefighter/EMT for over ten years, and she has been a police officer for 22-plus years. She is currently the Director of Investigative Services, Recruiting, and the Office of Accountability and Oversight with the Maryland-National Capital Park Police’ Prince George’s County Division. Her dedication to training has earned her the highly coveted MPCTC Instructor of the Year award four times and recognition for excellence in training. She has also received a Police Leadership Award and a Chief’s Award for outstanding service.

Dr. Barton’s commitment to service has also been recognized outside of law enforcement. She received the first Martin Luther King award from the University of Maryland Capital Region Hospital Center’s Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Center for her work with survivors of domestic violence. Additionally, she received the Edward DeHavine Brown Community Service Award for training her community in CPR.

The exceptionally high success of the inaugural Women in Law Enforcement Conference on Monday 26 August 2024 is the work of Dr Barton and her Barton’s Blue Line Training and Consultation which took place in Washington DC bringing together Law Enforcement, State Attorney for Prince George’s County, Chief of Police for Bowie, Sheriff, the newly appointment Mayor of Littlestown Pennsylvania, Police Officers and Staffs from across the world. On the international front Dr. Barton worked with Law enforcement Leaders from the United Kingdom and Scotland to share information on best practices for law enforcement in the area of leadership,  recruitment and retention, use of force and accountability and oversight. Dr. Barton created ICU Shine Inc.(a nonprofit organization) dedicated to giving a voice to individuals who are often overlooked. She has worked for more than 11 years with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, collaborating with other organizations to provide food, clothing, legal assistance, counseling and financial education and support. Dr. Barton’s story inspires all who seek to impact their communities positively. She is a member of IACP, PERF, NOBLE, and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated, she embodies their motto, “greater service, greater progress”

Mike Boward Sergeant, Personnel and Training Unit

Fort Collins Police Department

Mike Boward has over 31 years of law enforcement experience, with more than 26 of those years spent at his current agency in Fort Collins, Colorado. He currently serves as a Sergeant in the Fort Collins Police Personnel and Training Unit. Prior to this role, Boward served as a Patrol Sergeant and a Training Officer within the same unit, where he was responsible for coordinating recruiting efforts, police officer hiring, and background investigations.

Before his time in the Personnel and Training Unit, Boward spent over six years as a Criminal Investigations Detective and also served as a Field Training Officer. He has been a speaker and chairperson at numerous national conferences, covering topics such as Recruitment and Retention, Women in Policing, and Mental Health and Wellness.

Boward has also taught a wide variety of courses both locally and nationally, including Recruiting and Hiring Strategies, Robbery Investigations, Auto Theft, and Criminal Interdiction. He is also a member of the Fort Collins Police Academy Staff.

Boward holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Andrews University.

Ettice Brickus, MSM, M.S.Ed Lt. Colonel, Deputy Chief of Patrol, Area 2 Commander

Baltimore Police Department

Lieutenant Colonel Brickus joined the Baltimore Police Department in 2001 and is a proud resident of the City of Baltimore. She currently serves as a Deputy Chief of Patrol. Her most recent command assignment was as the Commanding Officer of the Recruitment and Applicant Investigations Section, as well as the Commanding Officer of the Administrative Duties Division. Previous assignments include Patrol District Commander, Patrol Operations/Vice, Command Investigations, Management Services, Information Services, Records Management, Central Records and Certified Police Instructor. She holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Law Enforcement and Correctional Administration from Baltimore City Community College, a Bachelor and Master of Science degree in Management from The Johns Hopkins University, a Master of Science in Education degree and a Graduate Teaching Certificate from The Johns Hopkins University, and a Criminal Justice Leadership Certificate from University of Maryland University College. She is also an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives in Leadership (NOBLE) and the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). Lastly, she is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Policing (SMIP), Session 85.

Yasmin Brown Assistant Chief, Patrol Services

Maryland-National Capital Park Police 

Assistant Chief Yasmin Brown has 22 years of law enforcement experience with the Maryland-National Capital Park Police (Prince George's County Division). Prior to her employment with the Park Police, she served as a dispatcher with the Prince George's County Police Department for 4 years. During her tenure, she has served as Patrol Officer, Mounted Officer, Patrol Sergeant, K-9 Unit Supervisor, Field Training Officer, Field Training Program Coordinator, Patrol Lieutenant, Support Operations Lieutenant, Investigative Operations Captain/Assistant Chief and currently Support Operations Captain/Assistant Chief. Her responsibilities include management of the day-to-day operations of the Communications Division, the Records Section, the Technology Section, and the Training Division. She serves as the lead General/Academic instructor, Master EVOC instructor and lead Defensive Tactics instructor for her agency, as well as a guest instructor at the Prince George's County Police Academy. She also serves as an instructor at the Prince George's Community College Municipal Academy. She attended the Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command in 2015 and she completed the IACP Leadership in Police Organization in 2017. She is a dynamic leader with a passion for the profession, a passion for leading, and a strong passion for fostering career development for subordinate employees through training and mentoring. She has been instrumental in building and maintaining positive relationships with other agencies and community leaders and coordinating efforts between multiple agencies for positive operational outcomes. "My personal goal is to develop a police force that is known for its professionalism and dedication to its officers and to the community that it serves."

Vera Bumpers Chief of Police (retired)

Harris County Metro Transit Authority Police Department

“I value diversity and believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. As Chief of Police my goal was to ensure the organization provided professional, fair, and impartial law enforcement services to the entire community.”

Vera Bumpers served as the Chief of Police for Houston METRO for 10 years, retiring in 2024. She was the first woman to lead the METRO Police Department (MPD) and the first woman to be promoted through every rank within the department. MPD is a full-time, full-service agency that is authorized to employ 300 sworn Texas Peace Officers and over 125 civilian staff members. The department is dedicated to ensuring safety and security for customers, employees, and communities surrounding the transit system.

Since her retirement, Chief Bumpers has become a motivational speaker, advocating for law enforcement and addressing issues of diversity, empowering attendees to believe that they can achieve their goals.

Chief Bumpers has received numerous accolades for her leadership, both locally and nationally. She is a past National President of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) and has been featured in the African American Newspaper and Houston Women Magazine. She was honored as a Top 50 Black Professionals and Entrepreneur, as well as one of the Top 30 Influential Women in Houston. In recognition of her contributions, Mayor Sylvester Turner proclaimed November 14, 2014, as "Chief Vera Bumpers Day." Additionally, she received the 2015 Trailblazer Award from the Women in Transportation Seminar and the 2022 National Women Law Enforcement Executive of the Year Award from Motorola.

Professional Associations and Activities

- Member, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE)

- Member, National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives

-Member, International Association of Chiefs of Police (Board member 2020 – 2024)

- Member, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority

- Member, The Links, Incorporated

Education and Certifications

- M.S. in Education, Prairie View A&M University

- B.S. in Criminal Justice, Texas State University

- Graduate, 230th session of the FBI National Academy

Shayla Collins Human Resources Manager

City of Bakersfield/Bakersfield Police Department

Shayla Collins is a Human Resources Manager residing in Bakersfield, California, with over 17 years of Human Resources experience, including 12 years at the City of Bakersfield where she oversees recruitment and selection for the Bakersfield Police Department. Shayla combines her expertise in leadership, workforce development, and employee engagement to foster a positive workplace culture.  She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Communications, which enhances her ability to convey complex ideas effectively. Throughout her career, Shayla has implemented innovative programs that inspire collaboration and inclusivity among her colleagues.  Shayla enjoys spending quality time with family and friends in her free time, traveling and listening to various music genres. She is also passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and actively participates in community initiatives that promote continuous learning.

Camay Curry Corrections Lieutenant

Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office

Camay Curry is a Corrections Lieutenant with over 21 years of law enforcement experience at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. An Army veteran, Camay brings leadership, dedication, and a passion for growth to her role. She holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Human Resources Management and is an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated and NOBLE (National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives).

In addition to her law enforcement career, Camay is an entrepreneur, managing Rising Water’s Management, LLC, specializing in real estate investments. She owns Kid’n Time Toys and Kid’n Time Stories on YouTube, creating content and products for children. A business coach to aspiring business owners, Camay believes in leveraging success to uplift others. Camay is also the Founder of Defined Destiny Incorporated, a nonprofit supporting individuals in or affected by the foster care system.

Her motto, “The more I do, the more I make. The more I make, the more I give,” reflects her unwavering commitment to service and community. Guided by faith, Camay’s leadership extends beyond her career as she hopes to inspire those around her.

Marvin "Ben" Haiman Executive Director of the Center for Public Safety and Justice

University of Virginia

Mr. Marvin "Ben" Haiman is the Executive Director of the Center for Public Safety and Justice at the University of Virginia and a Visiting Fellow at Rutgers University. A respected leader in public safety, Mr. Haiman consults nationally and internationally on law enforcement policy, recruitment, training, and technology. Previously, he served as Chief of Staff for the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., overseeing key units, including Communications, General Counsel, Equity and People, and Professional Development. He led the MPD's Professional Development Bureau from 2017 to 2021, where he advanced recruiting, training, testing, and HR operations, following several roles related to technology and policy.

Mr. Haiman’s extensive background also includes directing the Homeland Security Advisory Council at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where he developed critical task forces on national security issues. He holds a master’s degree in management from Johns Hopkins University, bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Iowa, along with additional certifications in strategic management and public administration. He is a graduate of the Metropolitan Police Academy in Washington DC.  Recognized by the International Association of Chiefs of Police as a 40 Under 40 honoree, Mr. Haiman has also earned the prestigious Gary P. Hayes Award from the Police Executive Research Forum. He resides in Washington, D.C., with his family and serves as a reserve officer with the MPD.

Martha Johnson Ballistic Engineer

Point Blank Enterprises

Martha Johnson is a Ballistic Engineer at Point Blank Enterprises’ Technology and Testing Center in the Research & Development department.

Martha has over 35 years of experience in the field of ballistic science, specializing in the development of advanced body armor systems for the U.S. Military and Department of Defense, Federal Agencies, and both domestic and international law enforcement professionals. Her collaborative research initiatives with the DHS, DEA, FBI, military, and law enforcement agencies have helped produce ground-breaking discoveries that will impact the next generation of ultra-performance ballistic products.

Throughout her career, she has continuously worked with law enforcement professionals to evaluate the comfort, functionality, and performance of body armor particularly for female officers. For the past 15 years, Martha has worked diligently to develop an improved female armor design that is thinner, more flexible, and contoured to fit the curvature of many female forms while maintaining optimal protective coverage. By listening to the challenges, needs, and wants of female officers, she helped set the new benchmark for body armor… specially engineered by a woman for women.

Her understanding of ergonomic design principles in producing vests that not only offer superior ballistic protection but ideal comfort in challenging environments was instrumental in developing Point Blank’s latest Elite EXO ballistic system.

Rochelle Jones Detective, Community Outreach Coordinator & Mason the Comfort Dog’s Handler

Portsmouth Police Department

Detective Rochelle Jones was hired by the Portsmouth Police Department in 2002. She is a U.S. Army Veteran; former corrections officer and has a degree in Criminal Justice.

She has served as a patrol officer, school resource officer, general investigator, cold case lead investigator, and currently as the community outreach coordinator & Mason the comfort dog’s handler. She is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with the community and providing safety trainings.

Det. Jones is a member of the SERT Crisis Negotiator team, CISM and Peer Support team, and serves on several boards & committees. She trains first responders in CIT, mental health/wellness, and effective interventions for individuals with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

She has received the following awards: Martin Luther King Community Service, Women Leaders in Alzheimer’s Association Policy, HAVEN Life Changer, NAMI NH Law Enforcement, Portsmouth Police Department Life Saving Medal, CAC Champion for Children, NH Heroes, and the Rotary Vocational, Seacoast Mental Health Center Erik Cogswell Memorial, and 1st place in the NE Negotiator’s Challenge

Det. Jones is hardworking, friendly, and compassionate. She is dedicated to being Mason’s Mom, helping other first responders, and caring for the community where she was raised, lives, and continues to serve today.

Jennifer Keeney Director of Communications

Louisville Metro Police Department

Jennifer Keeney worked in newsrooms in Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Louisville for 30 years before recently making a move to become the Director of Communications at LMPD. She spent two decades leading WDRB in Louisville, growing it from a distant #4 station to #1, winning 10 Emmys and three Edward R. Murrow awards along the way. Driven by a sense of purpose to better her community, Jennifer now uses her news management background to build communication and trust among law enforcement and journalists.

Melinda Linas Chief of Police

Lindenhurst Police Department

Melinda Linas is the newly appointed Chief of Police in Lindenhurst, Illinois. Prior to becoming Chief, she spent over 25 years with the Chicago Police Department, retiring as the Commander of the 14th District. She is known for her unwavering dedication to public service, community empowerment, and exceptional leadership. Throughout her career with Chicago, Melinda has held a variety of critical roles, including Commander of the Office of Constitutional Policing and Reform, where she oversaw several key units, such as the Tactical Review and Evaluation Division (TRED), the 4th Amendment Stop Unit, and CompStat. She previously commanded the citywide Community Safety Team (CST), where she also served as a Lieutenant.

In addition to her distinguished law enforcement career, Melinda holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology from Marquette University and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from John Marshall Law School. She has been practicing law since 2008. Melinda’s journey of service began with her time in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and Illinois Army Reserves, where she rose to the rank of Lieutenant due to her dedication and outstanding abilities.

A breast cancer survivor, Melinda’s battle with the disease strengthened her resolve to support others. She was deeply affected by the loss of her co-worker and best friend to breast cancer and has since focused on empowering women in under-resourced communities, channeling her passion into providing access to support, education, and vital resources.

Four years ago, Chief Linas experienced a profound personal and professional loss when a young officer under her command died by suicide. Shortly thereafter, another traumatic event occurred when a CST officer was murdered during a traffic stop, and her partner was severely wounded but survived. These tragedies deepened Melinda's commitment to addressing trauma and mental health within the police force. Her leadership in navigating these incidents with compassion and honesty set an example for her unit and further fueled her dedication to erasing the stigma around mental health and trauma among officers and military veterans.

Melinda is an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). She also devotes her time to non-profit organizations including Erase PTSD Now, advocating for alternative treatments and destigmatizing PTSD for trauma survivors.

When not actively engaged in public service, Melinda enjoys golfing, cooking, traveling and cherishing time with her husband and two daughters.

Emily McKinley Deputy Chief of Police

Louisville Metro Police Department

Emily McKinley serves as Deputy Chief of Police for the Louisville Metro Police Department (Louisville, Kentucky, United States). In her role, she oversees the Accountability and Improvement Bureau and Support Bureau. She played an integral role for the City of Louisville as a member of the team managing the Department of Justice’s Pattern or Practice Investigation and reform efforts. She was the lead negotiator for LMPD in the City of Louisville’s Consent Decree negotiation with the United States Department of Justice.

Prior to becoming Deputy Chief, she held the rank of Assistant Chief over the Accountability and Improvement Bureau. She also served as a Major over the Administrative Services Division and a Patrol Division. Her responsibilities included departmental budget planning, technology, recruitment, records management, and strategic planning. During her career, she spent nearly a decade in the Homicide Unit as a detective, sergeant, and finally as the unit Commander for 3 years. She is the only person who has served in the Homicide Unit at all ranks.

Emily is dedicated to upholding constitutional principles while forging pathways for constant improvement in public safety strategies and the enhancement of community trust. She holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Kentucky and a master’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Louisville. She is a graduate of the Southern Police Institute’s Administrative Officers Course and PERF’s Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP).

Tanya Meisenholder, Ph.D. Director

NYU Policing Project | Former Deputy Commissioner (NYPD)

Dr. Tanya Meisenholder serves as the Director of Gender Equity for the NYU Policing Project, where she leads the groundbreaking 30x30 Initiative to advance women in policing. With nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience, primarily with the New York City Police Department (NYPD), Tanya has held prominent leadership roles, including Deputy Commissioner of Equity and Inclusion, Assistant Commissioner of Strategic Initiatives, and Chief of Staff to the First Deputy Commissioner. Her work has been pivotal in driving organizational change, fostering transparency, collaboration, and accountability in the co-production of public safety.

Tanya is a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum's Senior Management Institute for Police and is certified as a Modern Chief Diversity Officer and in Equal Employment Opportunity investigations through Cornell University. She also serves on the Advisory Board of the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy at the University at Albany. Tanya earned her Ph.D. in Criminal Justice from the State University of New York at Albany.

Marc Mirabella Financial Coach

Hudson Financial Group

The cornerstone of Marc’s practice is giving people the knowledge they need to make informed financial choices with confidence. He guides his clients through a process that both educates and empowers, taking the time to explain his recommendations and how they integrate with other facets of their overall wealth management plan. His experience covers a range of financial areas including wealth accumulation, retirement and estate planning, insurance protection, and asset protection.

Na'Shayla Nelson, PhD Assistant Chief of Police

Portsmouth Police Department

Assistant Chief Na’Shayla Nelson is a military veteran who has dedicated her life to public service. In 2007, Dr. Nelson began her law enforcement career.

She is a graduate of the University of Richmond’s 47th Session PELS (Professional Executive Leadership School), North Carolina State University’s 90th Session of AOMP (Administrative Officers Management Program), FBI-LEEDA Trilogy, FBI LEEDA e-Trilogy, and New Chief/Deputy Chief School (VACP). She is also a general instructor, adjunct professor, and certified emotional intelligence coach and holds numerous certifications.

Assistant Chief Nelson holds a Bachelor of Science from Upper Iowa University and two master’s degrees. She holds a Master of Public Policy and Administration with a concentration in Disaster Management from American Military University and a Master of Philosophy from Walden University. Assistant Chief Nelson has a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration from Walden University.

Dr. Na’Shayla Nelson is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, Continental Societies Inc., The National Society of Leadership and Success, the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Virginia Association of Police Chiefs, the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, and other professional organizations.

Mandy Nice Health and Fitness Manager

Daytona Beach Shores Public Safety Department

Mandy Nice has over 18 years of experience developing and implementing wellness programs that measurably improve the health, strength, quality of life, and resilience of first responders and civilians.  Her programs have earned multiple national awards including three gold American Heart Association Workplace Health Achievement awards, and she also received the U.S. President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition National Community Leadership Award.  Her work has been featured in the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Police Chief Magazine and the FBI National Academy Associate Magazine, and she has served as a Subject Matter Expert and professional speaker for industry-leading organizations including the U.S. DOJ COPS Office (CRI-TAC program), National Justice Clearinghouse, National Fraternal Order of Police, National Foundation Research Associates, and the IACP.  She expanded the industry as the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s National Tactical Program Manager and is now Chair of the IACP Physical Health Working Group, Board Member of the IACP Officer Safety and Organizational Wellness Section, Senior Manager at Lexipol, and Health and Fitness Manager of the Daytona Beach Shores Department of Public Safety. Her greatest motivator is helping first responders optimize their health to enjoy strong, rewarding careers and long, healthy retirements.

Gwen Nolan, MA Department Captain

New Orleans Police Department

Gwen Moity Nolan is a Captain for the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) with over 30 years of policing experience. She is currently the Commander of the Second District. Captain Nolan has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette.  In 2005 she earned a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice and graduated with honors. She was also named Criminal Justice Student of the Year and honored as Graduate Student of the Year. 

Captain Nolan is a 27-year veteran of the NOPD, having worked in the Patrol Division, District Investigation Unit, Records and Identification Division, Recruitment and Background Investigation, and Intelligence Unit, and served as the Commander of the Public Integrity Bureau for three years, overseeing the Misconduct and Force Investigation Teams.   

Before joining the NOPD, Captain Nolan served three years as a deputy with the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office.  

In addition to her academic achievements, Captain Nolan is a graduate of and a curriculum consultant for the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI); a graduate of Police Executive Research Forum (PERF)’s Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), and a graduate of the IACP Leadership in Police Organizations (LPO). 

In 2022, Captain Nolan developed and wrote a New Orleans Police Department Officer Career Development Guidebook for all officers from Recruit to Retirement, focusing on mentoring, training, and planning for the future.  

She has been married for 30 years and blessed with two children. 

Publications:

In March, 2005 she presented her paper: “Are College Educated Officers a Wise Investment?”  at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences Conference, Chicago, ILL. .

“What Does it Take to Recruit and Retain Police Officers?” International Police Executive Symposium, Working Papers #2, 2007.

Shellie Paiva Major (retired)

Honolulu Police Department

Shellie Paiva has been with the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) for 27 years, and retired on March 1^st as the Commander of District 4, which is the patrol district that encompasses the entire east coast and part of the North Shore of the island of Oahu.  She has extensive experience across a range of specialized units including the Rapid Deployment Force (RDF), Crime Reduction Unit (CRU), Narcotics/Vice Division and Specialized Services Division (SWAT).

She is a graduate of the University of San Francisco where she received her Bachelor of Science and Business Administration degree.  Her initial professional goals were to work in F.B.I., however, after joining the HPD in 1998, and meeting her future husband in recruit school, she realized home in Hawaii is where she belonged.

Her career with HPD started with her being pulled into an elite plainclothes unit known as CRU right after recruit school graduation.  She worked as an undercover officer purchasing illegal narcotics, leading to a significant OCDETF case involving Hawaii’s first forfeiture of an entire building. Her journey continued with years in patrol and 6 years undercover in the Narcotics/Vice Division where she infiltrated mainland drug trafficking organizations.

After being promoted to Detective, she worked in the Burglary/Theft Detail before transferring to a position closer to home as Sergeant of the Weed and Seed Unit and the Community Policing Team. She continued her professional advancement by getting promoted to Lieutenant where she spent three years on patrol.  Her career took a new direction when upon her next promotion to Captain she became part of the Specialized Services Division (SWAT).  Two years later she was promoted to Major and remained in SWAT where she led operations for 3 years.  She retired from the HPD as the Commander of patrol District 4 where she oversaw over 200 officers and civilians.

Her professional achievements include being the first female CRU Sergeant, the first female SWAT Captain, and the first female SWAT Commander as the Major of SSD.  Her personal accomplishments include her marriage of 20 years to her husband, their 5 children and 2 grandchildren.  When she’s not fulfilling her duties as a wife, mother, and HPD Major, she enjoys reading, hunting, and spending time with her girlfriends over a good meal and glass of wine.

Tricia Putnam Major, Chief Deputy

Clarke County Sheriff’s Office

Major Tricia Putnam has 35 years as a Virginia certified law enforcement officer, 20 years in Clarke County. All of the agencies she has worked for are 20 or fewer sworn. She began her career in Front Royal as their first female police officer. Throughout her career she has blazed the trail for other women to enter this profession by embracing the unique perspectives and strengths women bring to public service. She has been the first female officer in 3 of the agencies she has worked for, including Clarke County.

She currently assists the Sheriff in overseeing the day to day operations of the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office. She is a graduate of the University of Virginia National Criminal Justice Command College and The Executive Protection Institute. Her certifications include Crisis Negotiations, Mediation, Field Training Officer, and DCJS Instructor. She is a Special US Deputy Marshal assigned to the I81 Human Trafficking Task Force and was previously assigned to the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug and Gang Task Force.

Matthew Sanders Media & Public Relations Commander

Louisville Metro Police Department

Shekoufeh Shakarami Application Development Scientist/Engineer

DuPont Water & Protection

Dr. Shekoufeh Shahkarami is a seasoned scientist and project manager specializing in advanced protective textiles with over 20 years of experience in the field. Currently, she serves as an Application Development Scientist/Engineer at DuPont Water & Protection, where she leads the development of next-generation ballistic protective solutions for the defense sector.

Throughout her career, Shekoufeh has been instrumental in transforming groundbreaking inventions into multi-million-dollar commercial applications, evidenced by her numerous patents. Her expertise in fabric design and product development is complemented by her record of intellectual property filings, which further solidify her role as a thought leader in protective textiles.

Before her tenure at DuPont, she served as an R&D Project Manager at Barrday, where she played a key role in the design of finished fabric while also managing collaborations with suppliers and military representatives.

Shekoufeh earned her PhD in Textiles from Heriot-Watt University, a Master’s degree in Clean Technology, and a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Chemistry, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of materials science and engineering.

Her passion for innovation, combined with her commitment to using science to solve real-world problems, continues to drive her success in the field of protective textiles.

Kim Stevenson Equity Program Manager

Baltimore Police Department

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Kim Stevenson is a dedicated Program Management specialist with over 20 years of experience in administration, community engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. She currently serves as the Equity Program Manager in the Equity Office of the Baltimore Police Department, a pioneering initiative focused on integrating DEI into the agency’s culture through training, leadership advisement, and strategic planning.

Kim holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Towson University and a Master’s degree in Legal and Ethical Studies from the University of Baltimore. She has also successfully completed the Maryland Equity and Inclusion Leadership Program (MEILP) at the University of Baltimore, further strengthening her expertise in fostering inclusive leadership and systemic change.

A recognized leader in public service, Kim has been honored with both a Governor’s and Mayoral Citation for her commitment to civic welfare. She has also received Congressional recognition for her advocacy and service to veterans, along with a Commander’s Award from the African American Patriot’s Consortium.

Kim’s guiding philosophy is to strive for progression, not perfection—a mindset that fuels her passion for mentoring, inspiring, and developing others. Her career has been a testament to hard work, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to making a meaningful impact in government and the community.

A proud resident of Baltimore’s Frankford neighborhood, Kim enjoys spending time with family and friends, writing, and helping others through mentorship and service.

Crystal Suber Owner

Crystal Clear Financial Solutions, Inc.

Crystal Suber has 20 years of experience in financial services and founded Crystal Clear Financial Solutions (CCFS) in 2016. She focuses on protecting assets for small businesses and families, emphasizing values like integrity and client-first service. Crystal Clear Financial Solutions is based in Richmond, VA, but their clients span several states.  Her company provides crystal clear solutions through comprehensive financial coaching and consulting. She believes financial education is paramount to financial success.  She is a graduate of Virginia State University and holds an MBA in Finance from Grand Canyon University. She is also deeply involved in community service, founding Patchwork RVA and serving as treasurer for Equality Virginia and Baby Buns for Life Network. In 2020, she was named an Outstanding Virginian for her dedicated service. Crystal is an avid sports fan and a travel-loving "Foodie."

Sheryl D. Victorian PhD, Chief of Police

City of Waco

Chief Sheryl Victorian, a native Texan, has dedicated over 30 years to the police profession. After serving nearly 28 years with the Houston Police Department, she was sworn in as the City of Waco’s first female and African American Chief of Police on March 15, 2021.       

Chief Victorian's academic achievements include earning a Doctorate of Philosophy in Administration of Justice from Texas Southern University (2013). Her dedication and service have earned her numerous awards and commendations, including the 2023 Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce “International Athena Leadership” and the 2023 Central Texas African American Chamber of Commerce “Public Servant of the Year” awards. She was also a finalist for the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives’ Woman Law Enforcement Executive of the Year (WoLEEY) award in April 2024.   

Chief Sheryl Victorian is a visionary leader in policing, celebrated for her ability to encourage, inspire, and motivate women. With a passion for inclusive representation, she champions diversity and equity within the police profession, believing that a workforce reflective of the communities it serves fosters greater trust, understanding, and effectiveness.   

Chief Victorian embraces authenticity, fostering self-confidence, and breaking barriers to leadership roles.  Her dedication to relational policing emphasizes building trust, understanding, and collaboration within communities and among officers.   

Chief Victorian is an adjunct instructor at the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT), where she teaches Relational Policing – Relational Leadership, Cultivating a Culture of Ethics, and Internal Affairs Investigations:  Responsibility & Accountability.  She is also the chair of the Texas Police Chiefs Association’s (TPCA) Women’s Executive Leadership Committee (WELC).  Chief Victorian is a sought-after speaker at women’s and professional conferences across the country where she shares her expertise in authentic leadership, relational policing, and leading with power and purpose.    

Chief Victorian is the author of “The Me I See,” a children’s book that encourages girls and boys to envision themselves as future police officers. In her spare time, she enjoys writing, traveling, public speaking, and spending time with her family.