how we serve
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 Academy provides a 20-hour immersive experience focused on career development, leadership, and mentorship. The program’s curriculum includes:
The first Women’s Leadership Academy class was held in 2025 at the FSA Training Center in Tallahassee and featured 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 2026 Women’s Leadership Academy nomination period will open up in early January.
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 Florida Sheriffs Women’s Leadership Academy is not only a significant step towards leadership development for Florida’s top women law enforcement leaders, but it is also a major step in achieving the goals of the 30×30 Initiative, a national effort to increase the representation of women in law enforcement to 30% by 2030,” said Florida Sheriffs Association President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell. “By providing targeted leadership training, mentorship and career development opportunities, we are paving the way for more women to rise through the ranks and lead with excellence.”
The Florida Sheriffs Association would like to congratulate all of the graduates of the Women’s Leadership Academy Class 1.
