Wonder Woman of the Month
Every month we feature one of our incredible 911derWomen to say thank you for the work you do. Email WomanOfTheMonth@911derWomen.com to submit your nomination every month!
Email WomanOfTheMonth@911derWomen.com the following:
Name, title and agency of your nominee
A paragraph about why you admire this woman
A high-resolution picture of your nominee
Your nominee’s address
Nominations are due by the 20th of each month!
Thank you for our partner, CCS for supporting our 911der Woman of the month!
Kaleigh Sparks - February 2024
Our February 911der Women spotlight of the month is Kaleigh Sparks of Fairbanks Emergency Communications Center in Fairbanks, Alaska. Kaleigh was nominated by Shift Supervisor, Sara Sandbo Here’s what Sara had to say:
“Kaleigh Sparks started her career in 9-1-1 in late 2020 quickly finishing training and serving her hometown of Fairbanks, Alaska as a dispatcher until Fall 2021 when she left to pursue her dream and attend esthetician school. Once finished, Kaleigh returned to us and continued her role as dispatcher while doing esthetics on the side. Fast forward to 2023, and Kaleigh's accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable. She has ascended to roles such as communications training officer and acting shift supervisor, while also completing Fitch & Associates - Communication Center Manager training and pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Juggling a more than full-time work schedule and raising her daughter Lexi, Kaleigh's dedication is awe-inspiring.
Fortunately, I have been with Kaleigh throughout her career which allowed me to watch her flower into a dedicated public safety professional and role model for others at our center. Kaleigh did not have the best support growing up and it’s truly admirable to see her lead and be a position of support for her peers in the center. While her plate is always full, she is always willing to lend a hand and share her expertise. Throughout her remarkable journey, I have had the privilege of witnessing Kaleigh's transformation. From her humble beginnings as a newcomer unsure of what lay ahead, Kaleigh has evolved into a confident, intelligent, and truly inspiring woman. Her resilience and unwavering commitment serve as a testament to her character. Kaleigh epitomizes the essence of the 911der woman, a symbol of strength and determination in our field.”
Valerie S. D’Intino, ENP - January 2024
Valerie began her career in 911 in 1998 when she became a Public Safety Telecommunicator for Christiansburg Police Department. She then became a CTO, and later a supervisor while working with the Christiansburg Police Department. Valerie joined the New River Valley Emergency Communications Regional Authority (NRV 911) in 2015 as the first Training Coordinator for this newly formed agency.
As Training Coordinator for NRV 911, Valerie oversees the CTOs and their assigned trainees, as well as serving on the hiring panel. Newly selected team members are provided on-boarding and software education designed and presented by Valerie.
Valerie is a DCJS General Instructor as well, and teaches at the Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy. Valerie obtained her Emergency Number Professional Certification in October 2022. She also began APCO's RPL program in 2022. Her “project” for RPL is to obtain the ATPC (Agency Training Program Certification) for NRV 911. Her passions lie in helping to develop staff to their fullest potential through opportunities for education, as well as empowerment through encouragement and affirmations.
Off duty you’ll find her traveling with her grandchildren or volunteering at a senior assisted living facility teaching Zumba Gold® (seated fitness) to residents.
I admire Valerie because she sets her mind to something and gets it done, no matter what or who stands in her way. She brings a unique and compassionate perspective to any situations that arise. Valerie served as my trainer at NRV 911 and ensured that each day the pillars of responder safety, service to the citizens, competency, and compassion were on the forefront of my mind each day. When we receive those calls about the individuals asking about the time of the parade or directions, many telecommunicators might get frustrated however, I ask myself how would Valerie respond? Valerie ensured that compassion was ingrained into my training process and it makes me a better telecommunicator each and every day. She also ensures that others know their value and spreads joy almost daily with positive affirmations to all staff. Valerie has been a rockstar this past year, she created and developed sessions for conferences, completed her ENP certification, and began APCO’s RPL program. It’s Valerie’s compassion, mindfulness, and tenacity that are her most admirable qualities.
Tina Reece - October 2023
Our October 911der Women spotlight of the month is Tina Reece of the St. Charles City PD in Missouri! Tina was nominated by Ashley Michels. Here’s what Ashley had to say:
“Tina Reece has been a police dispatcher at the St. Charles City Police Department since 2007. During her time at the police department, Tina has served as a Communications Training Officer and our agency’s TAC (Terminal Agency Coordinator.)
In December of 2022, while working a shift on the dispatch floor, Tina received a phone call that would forever change her life. Tina was diagnosed with Breast Cancer.
Throughout her diagnoses, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and countless doctor’s appointments, Tina has continued to put her whole heart into her dispatching career. Tina has shown courage, strength and dedication to her agency and has been loved and supported by her coworkers.
Tina is a true 911derWoman.”
Kylee Dredla - August 2023
Our August 911der Women spotlight of the month is Kylee Dredla, Dispatcher at North Platte PD in Nebraska! Kylee was nominated by Stephanie Lewis. Here’s what Stephanie had to say:
“Kylee Dredla is by far one of the top dispatchers you'll ever meet. She had a call out in another town about 30 minutes away and we couldn't get ahold of the volunteer department to get help to the patient. Kylee did CPR for about 45 minutes until we could get help headed that way. When she hung up the phone, she was ready for the next call. Kylee is truly the calm voice in the night. She also had a call about a year ago where a family was being held at gunpoint by a crazy man who thought they were being too loud. She made sure everyone, including our deputies, went home safe that night. She is truly an inspiration and I believe she is truly a 911der woman!”
Krista Amaro - July 2023
Our July 911der Women spotlight of the month is Krista Amaro, Dispatch Supervisor at Kiowa County Sheriff’s Office! Krista was nominated by Kansas APCO Chapter President, Kelly Chess. Here’s what Kelly had to say:
“Krista Amaro has been a servant leader in 911 for 17 years, proudly representing a one-seater dispatch center in a small town tucked back in the flattest parts of Kansas where the tumbleweeds tumble. I met her 4 years ago at a Kansas APCO conference when she decided to push her 911 career a little further by running for the 2nd Vice President position on the board. Little did I know at the time, this beautiful woman would quickly become my friend and one of the brightest lights in my life.
Krista has tirelessly dedicated her time running the show at Kiowa County 911- she is a true "Jane of all trades". She manages the dispatch center full-time, transports the inmates for the jail, has been known to dress out the inmates, and covers the consoles when they are short staffed. She is always the first to lend a helping hand wherever and whenever, with no questions asked, no keeping track and never an ulterior motive. She is genuine in everything she says and more importantly, she follows through. She is the record keeper, the mail carrier, court reporter, voucher signer, and her Sheriff's right hand. She is involved in several committees throughout the state of Kansas, on multiple state boards and is passionate about speaking on behalf of the smaller dispatch centers throughout Kansas.
This is just a small list of what she does on a daily basis. Outside of work, Krista is very dedicated to her family, farm animals and friends. I often wonder how she is able to manage all of these things without losing her mind, but instead, she continues forward with a smile and her incredible sense of humor.
I admire her grit, her grace, and her authenticity. I love her heart, her smile, and all of the little things that make her special. Most of all, I'm grateful for her friendship. She is a quarter in a sea of pennies.”
Sarah Bryan - June 2023
Our June 911der Women spotlight of the month is Sarah Bryan, Senior Sheriff’s 911 Communications Officer in CA! Sarah was nominated by Training Supervisor, Randy Merrill. Here’s what Randy had to say:
“Senior Sheriff’s 911 Communications Officer Sarah Bryan has been employed with Riverside Sheriff’s Department since August 2005. She excelled as a dispatcher and became a Communications Training Officer in 2008, fueling her passion for training. She has guided many new dispatchers successfully through their training and continued to be a mentor to them after their completion of training. In 2019 she was selected to transition to the Sheriff’s Academy, serving as an instructor at our basic dispatch academy. In this capacity she worked in a classroom setting teaching all newly hired dispatchers the basics of the position prior to the start of their one-on-one training. In 2022 she transferred back to the dispatch center, however, has since filled in on several occasions during the absence of instructors.
During her time at the academy, she was part of a team that worked tirelessly updating training materials and manuals, and adding California POST requirements, ultimately allowing our academy to become POST certified. This has allowed our dispatchers to graduate our academy as POST certified dispatchers, preventing the need to send them to an additional three-week training course, which greatly impacts our staffing levels.
In addition, while she was at the training center, our department opened up a new sheriff’s station. She was a significant help in updating information for the new station from tests, maps, and all geography changes. She also trained her replacement for the academy position and left a complete step by step instructional manual for any questions they might have. She also has made up an instructional manual for any deputies that are temporarily assigned to dispatch. Sarah goes above and beyond what is asked or expected from her. She is highly respected among her peers as well as new trainees who are at the Academy. While she does not like to be in the spotlight, she is more than deserving of this award.”
Kelsey M. Carpenter - May 2023
Our May 911der Women spotlight of the month is Kelsey M. Carpenter, Communications Officer - Washington County Department of Public Safety in NY! Kelsey was nominated by Deputy Director, Tim Hardy, ENP. Here’s what Tim had to say:
“Kelsey kicked off her interest in the First Responder community by joining the Greenwich Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter and later continued to achieve her NYS Emergency Medical Technician certification and also joined the Emergency Medical Service as a volunteer. While hoping to further her career in Public Safety, Kelsey developed an interest in what happens "under the headset" (or behind the scenes) and was selected following interviews to join our team at the Department of Public Safety. Kelsey progressed quickly through our lengthy Communications Officer training process and became a key contributor to our organization and our First Responder community! Kelsey continues to strive to help our organization and team progress, she's joined other members of our Education and Outreach team in being part of the development and delivery of an "Introduction to Emergency Communications" course for our local Criminal Justice Studies two-year program at the Warren-Washington-Hamilton-Saratoga-Essex BOCES, which we recently kicked off for the first time this year! Kelsey is very well known amongst our team to volunteer for any opportunity to help shape the future of our operation and interact with our First Responder partners or communities. As of late Kelsey and her fellow shift mates have been "under the headset" for a number of extremely difficult and challenging calls, yet maintaining their professionalism and dedication to those who rely on our services. We are looking forward to Kelsey being a key member of our team for many years into the future, continuing to help make our team and organization the best possible for our communities!”
Kelsey has recently been featured in our "Under the Headset" profile series on our facebook page, which can be viewed here: https://www.facebook.com/WashCoNYDPS911/posts/pfbid0wPgciedkAxpnPNW2HKVk9eyHW7QYxWEWNBxTYm8itF84FtBhvXTpamXwH2mPtkmCl
Suzan Taubel - April 2023
Our April 911der Women spotlight of the month is SuzanTaubel of the Champaign Countywide Communication Center in Springfield, Ohio! Suzan was nominated by Steven Molton. Here’s what Steven had to say:
“Suzan started her career as a dispatcher in 2018 with Champaign County. She quickly became very acclimated to the dispatcher duties and responsibilities. I had the honor of working with and being her shift supervisor for over a year.
As a retired police officer of 28 years, I would have loved having Suzan being my dispatcher. Officers and deputies have commented about her being one of the best dispatchers they have ever had.
During my time at the center, Suzan became one of my favorite coworkers of my many years in public safety. I looked forward to working shifts with her knowing that if bad things were going to happen, we would be able to handle it.
I remember a young lady that came to our center and Suzan was selected to train her. She was stubborn and always seemed to push back when her supervisor (me) told her things that needed to be done. Suzan became a bridge between the young lady and myself (who I had met when she was a youth member in my church with my children). With Suzan's training and mentorship, this young lady became an outstanding dispatcher that I would not hesitate to work with.
I left the Champaign Countywide Communication Center in late 2019 for a less stressful environment that was closer to my home. When job openings come up at my current agency, Suzan is the first person I go to and she always turns me down.
In 2022, Suzan went to Florida as a member of the OHIO TERT (Telecommunicator Emergency Response Taskforce) to assist after Hurricane Ian hit the Florida area.
Unfortunately, I only had a little over a year of working with her. If I was still her coworker, I am sure I could write chapters of how great Suzan is.
I have seen in my career people going above and beyond the call of duty and their efforts go unrecognized. I believe Suzan should be recognized because going above and beyond is her normal way of doing business. “
Angie Schaefer - March 2023
Our March 911der Women spotlight of the month is Angie Schaefer from Watertown Police Department in Watertown, South Dakota! Angie was nominated by Kaitlin Fuerstenau. Here’s what Kaitlin had to say:
“They define a true leader as somebody who acts with integrity, establishes trust, helps people reach their full potential, and inspires excellence. These items describe Angie to a “T”. Angie always acts in a professional manner toward her co-workers and callers ensuring that everybody receives the same top-notch service regardless of how her day has gone or what pressures she may be facing. Angie is consistently building trust with all of the communications officers as a person most of us feel very comfortable going to with an issues both professional and personal. Angie is always looking for ways to help other communication officers reach their full potential by pointing out relevant trainings; diligently working on Q’s, providing constructive feedback to help everybody improve their performance, and finding positive and encouraging words to build us up when we’ve had a difficult call. They say a dispatcher is the calm voice in the dark and Angie truly is that calm voice in the dark. Regardless of the situation, Angie remains calm and diligently works through the call to figure out what kind of assistance is needed, gets that assistance started, and remains with the caller until help has arrived. The care and compassion that you hear in each and every one of her calls inspires you to do better and be a better dispatcher. Angie is always going above and beyond to make sure the communication center runs smoothly. She consistently fills in shifts wherever needed, helps work schedules around to ensure people can have the time off they need/request as to help ensure we’re not burning out, and does so without looking for anything in return, praise, or recognition. She’s always working “behind the scene” in a variety of facets to solve problems and create continuity within the center that many of us may not even realize. She puts her heart and soul into the center and for the PD without a second thought every single day and will always do whatever it takes to ensure we are successful.”
Heather Hall - February 2023
Our February 911der Women spotlight of the month is Heather Hall from Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office in Texas! Heather was nominated by Sgt. Erika Gomez. Here’s what Sgt. Gomez had to say:
“I would like to nominate Heather Hall, the Communications Lieutenant with Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office. She is the first female civilian to ever hold this position at our agency. Heather started at our agency in October of 2001 and quickly rose in ranks and became a Dispatch Sergeant soon after. Not only was she in charge of supervising her shift and a working Sergeant, she also took over TAC responsibilities and the Training Department. She developed our previous training manual and trained many while doing all her other responsibilities!
Since she took over the Communications Division in October of 2021, she has made many beneficial changes to our dispatch department. She looks out for our best interests and stands up for us when needed. She does everything possible to be fair and consistent and ensure that she keeps her promises when she makes them.
Like many other agencies, we have had many issues with retention and getting people hired and in the door to train. She has maintained a positive attitude throughout all these difficulties and has stepped in to assist dispatch when needed.
She was able to get approval from the Sheriff to hire additional dispatch personnel as well as another clerk for the Warrants Dept. Soon after she took over the Lieutenant position, four new dispatch supervisors were hired on as well! This in itself was a struggle for all parties involved. We had four new supervisors learning how to lead their teams and work through the difficulties of being short staffed. We have always been able to go to Heather for any suggestions and questions. We love that she keeps an open mind and will listen to what we propose. She is definitely an asset to our agency. We are very lucky to have her!”
Khrystyna Stark - January 2023
Our January 911der Woman of the month is Khrystyna Stark, a telecommunicator/CTO at Boone County Sheriff’s Office in Illinois. Khrystyna was nominated by Jeanine Kaplan, ENP. Here’s what Jeanine had to say:
"I was fortunate enough to interview, mentor, and more importantly become friends with Khrystyna over the last 7 years. Khrystyna is a humble, grateful, and motivating person while coming in each day, putting her head in her headset and focusing on providing the best standard of care to the community. She takes pride in her work, ensures that the people she trains understands the importance of safety not only the community but the field units as well. More importantly, she always does it in the most respectful way possible. She is patient and her demeanor hasn't changed in her 7 years in 911. She isn't involved in the drama and focuses on personal accountability and her health. She commits herself to fitness and running 911 5k's, her mental health by reading personal development books regularly to maintain a safe mental space for such a strenuous career path. She does all of this while raising 3 small children with her husband who is the epitome of the Midwest man who provides for their family and is often working extended hours similar to her dispatching hours. She doesn't complain, in fact she always makes the family's schedule work and doesn't let her personal stress affect her demeanor at work or how she treats her coworkers or the community she serves. She is active in the CTO program, has volunteered to attend the State 911 conference, and always finds ways to better herself and the organization. Coming from a smaller agency there aren't always a lot of opportunities for growth and she is always looking for opportunities to bring to her agency. She is the epitome of a 911der Woman. Anyone who knows her would agree that her humble demeanor, her ability to come in and get the job done effectively with the passion and drive she has makes her more than deserving for Woman of the Month!"