Chief Paula Balafas

Q: Why did you become a police officer?

There were so many reasons!  I mostly wanted to do something that mattered, and I wanted to help people.  I also wanted to be part of a team.  I wanted a job where I could so something different every day and be active.  I also wanted to be able to think critically and solve problems.  Policing was the total package deal for me.

Q:  What motivates you to succeed?

I want to create a positive internal department climate where people are heard and seen.  I want to invest in our personnel so that they can become successful at all levels of the organization, and to encourage and develop those people who want to lead.  I also want to create an atmosphere for the community so that they know that their police department cares about them and wants to keep the community safe for them.

Q:  What’s your most memorable moment on the job?

Being selected as the chief of the University of Arizona Police Department is my most recent memorable moment!  Previously, it would have been developing and promoting personnel and seeing them succeed.

Q:  What challenges have you faced?

I’ve been in law enforcement a long time, and one of my constant challenges has been trying to have some semblance of a work/life balance.

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

This is such an amazing career for women and one for which women have an excellent skill set.  Policing requires excellent communication skills, critical thinking skills, the ability to relate to a vast array of people, and generally speaking, women’s ability to de-escalate situations.  Policing offers so much—job security, good salary and benefits, exceptional training, opportunities for collateral assignments or promotion.  The sky is the limit!  Women in policing can help build a bridge between communities and the police who serve those communities.