HERstory: Officer Elizabeth Bandy
As we prepare to celebrate Assistant Chief Sandra Albrektsen with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Women in Blue Luncheon, each week we’ll be sharing a story of a female leader at the San Diego Police Department. The “HERstory” campaign is a vibrant tribute to the Honor, Excellence, and Resilience embodied by our women in blue, shedding light on the remarkable women behind the uniform.
Which unit are you currently assigned to?
I am currently assigned to the Training Division as a Training Officer at the Regional Academy.
How many years have you served in law enforcement/public safety?
I have worked in law enforcement 11 years, all with the San Diego Police Department.
What inspired you to pursue a career in public safety?
Since high school, I knew I wanted a career in law enforcement because it was a challenging career where every day is different from the last.
What do you think women contribute to this male-dominated industry?
I think women bring a different perspective to any given problem.
Tell us about a time when you were mentored or supported in your career. How has this experience shaped you?
Over the years, I had the pleasure of working closely with many different female officers. We always made an effort to encourage each other to pursue new challenges or opportunities. Now as a Training Officer at the academy, I have the privilege of training and mentoring new officers at the beginning of their careers.
This year’s theme is HERstory; what does that mean to you?
To me, HERstory focuses on emphasizing women’s perspectives and narratives in law enforcement.
Can you share an example or experience that illustrates how Chief Albrektsen’s leadership has influenced your own leadership journey?
It was the day after the academy graduation, and we were all waiting nervously for our first assignments. The then-Lieutenant Albrektsen walked into the room, looked at everyone, and said, “Field training is hard and many of you will struggle, but suck it up buttercup, work hard, and get through it.”
The 13th annual Women in Blue Luncheon: “HERstory,” honors Assistant Chief Sandra Albrektsen for her remarkable contributions to the Women in Blue Initiative and over 40 years of service with the San Diego Police Department. Join us on February 27, 2024, at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront.
The luncheon brings business and community leaders together to recognize the achievements of female leaders in the public safety sector and to celebrate gender diversity in an occupation traditionally pursued by men. Elevating inclusion, leadership, and the empowerment of women, the initiative propels the advancement and representation of women in policing.