The Metropolitan Police Department hosted its Inaugural Women’s Conference, "Women Connecting with a Purpose: Learn. Grow. Thrive.”
The conference was a transformative event designed to empower and inspire women in various aspects of their personal and professional lives. Focused on fostering meaningful connections, the conference aimed to create a supportive environment where women could exchange knowledge, experiences, and insights.
Almost 500 attendees engaged in diverse workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities, encouraging them to learn from each other, grow personally and professionally, and thrive in their chosen law enforcement roles. The conference covered a wide range of topics, including leadership development, career advancement, wellness, and work-life balance. It provided a comprehensive platform for women to connect, learn, and embark on a journey of inspiration, empowerment, and fulfillment.
The two-day conference had 30 presenters, panelists, and mentors. The conference was emceed by Dr. Tracie Keesee, the president and co-founder of the Center for Policing Equity. Other notable guests included D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, D.C. Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith, U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Houston Metro Chief of Police Vera Bumpers, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Deputy Chief of Security Danielle Outlaw, and Women in Law Enforcement, Inc. President Catrina Bonus.
“We recognize women often face challenges; however, we rise to the occasion and continue to make invaluable contributions in the work we do,” said Chief Smith. “That’s why it’s important to create a supportive and inspiring environment where women from various law enforcement agencies can come together.”
Planning for this event began when Chief Smith served as MPD’s Chief Equity Officer.
MPD is committed to supporting the 30 × 30 Initiative, a nationwide effort to have women represent 30% of police recruits by the year 2030. Currently, 24% of MPD sworn members are women.
MPD continues to attract 17- to 24-year-olds to serve in the Cadet Corps to get an opportunity to learn hands-on about policing while attending college and earning college credits. Since 2018, 156 Cadets have become recruit police officers. 51% of the Cadet Corps are female.
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