Each Sept 12, National Police Woman Day acknowledges and celebrates the contribution of female police officers who enforce law and order around the country. This year, the Golden Valley Police Department (GVPD) is recognizing the strides it has made in supporting women in law enforcement to create a more inclusive environment. From its first woman police chief to the implementation of national initiatives aimed at increasing representation, the GVPD is paving the way for future generations. 

Assistant Chief Alice White spearheaded this story, as she felt it was important to recognize the past, present, and future contributions of women officers and support staff on the GVPD.

The Past

Women have served in the GVPD as officers, CSOs, and support staff for more than 50 years. 

Kelly Blad, who served with the GVPD from October 1995 to September 2007, was the department’s first woman sergeant. “Women are excellent communicators and team players,” says Blad. “We are community builders and inspire those to bring forward ideas for change to make the community a better place to live.” 

Stacy Carlson became the City’s first woman police chief in April 2007 served with the GVPD for nearly nine years. “I had a wonderfully rewarding career,” says Carlson. “The officers at the GVPD care tremendously about each person they encounter.”

The Present

Today, the GVPD is breaking barriers with the 30x30 Initiative, a national coalition that aims to achieve 30 percent female representation in police recruit classes by 2030 and create a supportive environment for women in policing to thrive throughout their careers.  

“I’m proud this is a place where we can all be successful and grow together,” says Brittany Froberg, police support services officer. “I feel valued in my department. I have never had stronger friendships than the ones I’ve gained at the GVPD.” 

Tenzin Wongmo, office assistant, also affirms the significance of the initiative. “I think movements like the 30x30 Initiative really help build momentum on the push for more women in a male-dominated field.” 

Sergeant Jen Sleavin, who has dedicated 23 years to the GVPD, says, “The people I work with and the community I serve are what drew me to Golden Valley and keep me here.”

“Coming to Golden Valley from a larger department I immediately noticed the strong female representation in the GVPD,” says White. “What was even more encouraging was there were women at all ranks. It’s been such an honor to be the first female assistant chief at GVPD and the highest-ranking Black female of any police municipality in the state.”

The Future

As the GVPD looks to the future, community service officers (CSOs) play a crucial role. These officers gain hands-on experience in the community, preparing them for potential full-time positions.  

“As women move into law enforcement, they help shape better relationships with the community,” says CSO Loreen Mills. “If women see themselves reflected in their local police department, this sets a good example for their own goals and dreams.” 

As the department continues to prioritize empowerment and representation, the future looks bright for women in law enforcement. To learn more about the GVPD, visit www.goldenvalleymn.gov/Police.

Front row, left to right: CSO Loreen Mills, CSO Ashley Beimert, Assistant Police Chief Alice White, Detective Sergeant Jen Sleavin, CSO Pa Vang, CSO Shayla Moore
Middle row, left to right: Police Department Assistant Maddie Rennpferd, Police Department Assistant Tenzin Wongmo, Crime Analyst Supervisor Kaitlin Undersander, Police Support Supervisor Brittany Froberg, Embedded Social Worker Kat Moreno, Officer Brianna Vierling
Back row, left to right: Officer Jordan Monson, Officer Rachel Pickhardt, Officer Abby Gerhardson, Sergeant Stacy Lakotas

Thank you to all GVPD staff who participated in this story.