Lt. Marjorie Hart

1. Why did you become a police officer?

Actually, I had never planned to become a police officer. My choosing to pursue this career was different and unique. I worked 10 years as a bus operator for mentally ill and developmentally disabled individuals in Cleveland, Ohio. I had a 4-hour break during my bus route and a co-worker needed a ride downtown to take the Police Officer Civil Service Exam. I drove her and was prepared to read a book and wait while she took the exam. However, my co-worker challenged me to go inside and take the test with her. She reminded me that the reason our co-workers called me “Marj the Sarge” was because I always wanted to manage and control events and, that I could always be counted on to ensure tasks were completed accurately and on time. So, I accepted her challenge, and I passed the exam. Unfortunately, my co-worker did not.

I didn’t know then, but it turned out to be an absolute blessing. My career in law enforcement has challenged me in ways I never imagined. I have grown both personally and professionally over the years. I have learned to be more patient and caring. I am a quick thinker and react very calmly to take control of negative situations. My priority has always been “safety first.” I strive to continue to advance my career. Today, 25-years later, law enforcement has proven to be great career and a tremendously rewarding experience. I really didn’t know how proud and joyful a career in public safety would be for me. I am very grateful.

What motivates you to succeed?

We currently have a public safety crisis in our communities, our states and around the world. In such a time, it is imperative that our public safety personnel and law enforcement agencies have well educated members serving in the most critical roles. I take continuing education seriously. This motivates me to push myself academically. Civil unrest, the effects of COVID-19 on our healthcare and economic systems, political division, wars around the world, domestic violence, safety on our school campuses, our mental health crisis and the lack of effective gun control laws places every person at risk. Today, the average American has lost that sense of security within their own home. People are living in fear at shopping malls, subway stations, walking parks, grocery stores, their place of employment and even at church.

We must continue to better understand the various threats to our public safety and develop effective methods of dealing with these threats. As our communities rapidly change and grow (demographically, economically, and educationally), our public safety measures must also evolve rapidly. We can and we must do better.

What’s your most memorable moment on the job?

Becoming the first and only female motorcycle officer at the Metro Police Department in 2009. It was a great feeling of accomplishment but getting there wasn’t easy. The two weeks of training to become certified was both physically and emotionally draining. I received awe-inspiring support from fellow motor officers, and the naysayers gave me respect for achieving my goal. Upon initial contact with the public, I was accustomed to their amazement at my being a female motorcycle officer. It was particularly gratifying when other females would give me a high-five or say, “I see you, girl.”

What challenges have you faced?

When I entered my career in law enforcement, I knew it was traditionally a male dominant career field with a strong sense of “brotherhood”. I never tried to push my way into their circles. I simply stayed true to myself and did my job to the best of my abilities. I worked hard and created everyone with respect. Eventually, I gained the respect of many of my fellow officers. However, when I was promoted, my decision-making was critiqued unfairly and harsher than my male peers. But I was motivated to continue to show my value and to use my skills for both the growth of the department and the public to serve my community. I am confident in myself, and I will continue to excel. I was born for this.

What advice do you have for women considering a profession in policing?

The 30X30 Initiative is absolutely attainable. We need women from all races and ethnicities, so our law enforcement agencies look like the communities we serve. So, my advice to women who are considering a career in law enforcement: it’s a highly rewarding career field which offers a lot of flexibility in where and how you serve. It offers you an opportunity for both personal and professional growth. It gives you a chance to change lives and make a difference in the
communities we serve.