Pioneering Woman Breaks Glass Ceiling in Law Enforcement
In a groundbreaking achievement, Stephanie V. Daniels made history by becoming the first woman to lead the Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), one of the largest police forces in the United States.
“Local 10 News reported that Daniels was officially sworn in as the new director of the Miami-Dade Police Department in January. Daniels is the first woman to lead what has been noted as one of the largest police departments in the U.S.,” the report stated.
A Trailblazer’s Journey to the Top
Daniels’ appointment as director marked a new era for the department. Her swearing-in ceremony took place at PortMiami on January 10th, where her husband pinned her badge, and her son honored her achievement.
“The ceremony occurred at PortMiami on a bright Wednesday. ‘I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude,’ said Daniels. Daniels’ husband pinned her badge, as her son honored his mom becoming the county’s top cop,” the report noted.
A Veteran with Decades of Dedicated Service
With 31 years of dedicated service to the MDPD, Daniels’ promotion to director followed her previous position as assistant director. Her commitment to the force and the community was praised by dignitaries in attendance, including Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez-Rundle.
“Daniels has dedicated 31 years to the force. ‘She’s always been focused on wanting to help improve the whole world around her, whether it was within the police department where she served, or the community which she lived,’ said Fernandez-Rundle,” the report quoted.
A Celebration of Pioneering Women in Law Enforcement
Daniels’ historic achievement was further celebrated at the 30th annual Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Umbrella Awards and Recognition Luncheon, hosted by the Metropolitan Dade County section of the National Council of Negro Women Inc. on April 28th.
“The afternoon celebrated: Director Stephanie V. Daniels, MDPD; Chief Delma Noelle-Pratt, MGPD; Director Sherea Green, MDCR; Chief Cherise Giordani Gause, NMPD; and Chief Harvette Smith, NMBPD,” the event description stated.
A Trailblazer’s Vision for the Future
As she embarks on her historic tenure, Daniels expressed her commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and excellence within the department, upholding values, and enhancing capabilities.
With a clear vision for the future, she aims to engage the community, prioritize officer safety and well-being, and keep crime rates low.
