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This groundbreaking leadership program is designed to elevate women currently serving in leadership roles within Florida’s Sheriffs’ Offices. The Florida Sheriffs Women’s Leadership Academy is not only a milestone for the state but a trailblazing initiative in breaking down barriers and overcoming negative stigmas faced by women in law enforcement. The program’s curriculum includes:
The 2027 Women’s Leadership Academy nomination period will open up in early January.
The Academy provides a 32-hour immersive experience focused on career development, leadership, and mentorship. This training is for women in entry and mid to senior-level leadership positions who wish to advance their careers and improve their leadership skillset. This training is relevant to both sworn and civilian members. You must be nominated by your Sheriff and your Sheriff may only make one nomination for each class. Three months prior to each class, the nomination forms and information are sent to each sheriff and their designated staff.
The Women’s Leadership Academy features industry-leading experts, including Florida’s four elected female sheriffs—retired Sheriff Susan Benton (Highlands County), retired Sheriff Sadie Darnell (Alachua County), Sheriff Michelle Cook (Clay County), and Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz (Miami-Dade County). These trailblazing leaders shared their experiences, challenges, and leadership strategies to inspire the next generation of women in law enforcement.
“The Florida Sheriffs Women’s Leadership Academy continues to play an important role in developing the next generation of leaders within our profession,” said Florida Sheriffs Association President and Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma. “As we celebrate the graduation of the second Women’s Leadership Academy, we are proud to see talented women from sheriffs’ offices across Florida building the skills, mentorship connections, and confidence needed to lead their agencies into the future. Programs like this also support the goals of the 30×30 Initiative, a national effort to increase the representation of women in law enforcement to 30 percent by 2030. By investing in leadership development today, we are strengthening the future of law enforcement in Florida.”
Florida Sheriffs Women’s Leadership Academy Class 2 Graduates:
