On September 15–16, 2025, the Massachusetts Latino Police Officers Association (MLPO), in proud partnership with Calibre Press, hosted the “Women in Command” training event. This two-day leadership development program welcomed participants from 18 police departments across New England and focused on key leadership topics such as embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, trusting intuition, building mentorship, and empowering women to lead with confidence.

The course was led by Deputy Chief Cyndy Velazquez (Ret.) of the Chicago Police Department, a distinguished instructor with over 30 years of law enforcement experience. Her depth of knowledge and dynamic teaching style made a lasting impact on the group.

More than 50 women attended the training, representing a diverse range of roles including civilians, dispatchers, patrol officers, detectives, sergeants, lieutenants, captains, majors, and deputy chiefs. The combined experience and leadership in the room were truly inspiring.

On behalf of the entire MLPO Executive Board, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for the enthusiastic participation and engagement of everyone involved. Your dedication to professional development and your thoughtful contributions significantly enhanced the experience for all.

We would like to especially thank the following departments and agencies for supporting the growth and advancement of women in law enforcement leadership:

• Revere Police
• Lowell Police
• Boston Police
• Medford Police
• Amherst College Police
• Tewksbury Police
• Stoneham Police
• Smith College Police
• Duxbury Police
• Berklee College Police
• Framingham State University Police
• Rutland City Police (VT)
• Norwich Police (CT)

• Goffstown Police (NH)
• Thornton Police (NH)
• Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department
• Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department

We are truly grateful for your support and commitment to fostering leadership development within your ranks. We hope you found the session valuable and empowering—and we look forward to seeing you at our next event.

Respectfully,
Executive Board
Massachusetts Latino Police Officers Association