Madison Reporter

The Madison Police Department has made significant strides in promoting gender diversity within its ranks, achieving a milestone in recruiting women for its 2023 Academy class. With women making up 35 percent of the recruits, MPD has surpassed the national average, where women currently constitute 28 percent of the department.

Training and Recruitment Sgt. Theresa Magyera expressed her pride in the department's commitment to supporting women in law enforcement, stating, “I’m proud our department stands behind its word. We don’t just say the right things to get people in the door, but we demonstrate that women are an important part of the organization.”

Research has highlighted the positive impact of having more women in policing, with female officers being associated with using less force, receiving fewer complaints, and being perceived as more honest and compassionate by community members. The 30x30 Initiative aims to advance the representation and experiences of women in policing, providing a research guide on the importance and methods of promoting gender diversity in law enforcement.

MPD has implemented various changes to create a more inclusive environment for female officers, such as offering specific exercises to help applicants who initially fail the physical test, increasing the number of female instructors in the Academy, and providing accommodations for pregnant officers and nursing mothers. Sgt. Magyera emphasized the importance of showcasing women in positions of authority to inspire leadership opportunities in a male-dominated profession.

Looking ahead, MPD remains committed to supporting the goals of the 30x30 Initiative, with the next Academy class set to commence in May, featuring seven women out of 32 recruits. The department is currently enrolling its 2025 Academy Class, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds to join their ranks.