2026 Board of Directors Nominations

Erika Scheider, Chief

AGENCY: Roseville
COUNTY: Ramsey
POSITION RUNNING FOR: 2nd Vice President

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

It has been an honor to serve on the MCPA Board of Directors since 2022, and I am seeking election as Second Vice President to continue advancing the important work of this Association. In recent years, law enforcement leaders across Minnesota have faced significant challenges, and the MCPA has served as a steady, credible voice for our profession.

I remain committed to ensuring that the MCPA continues to fulfill its mission of bringing the highest quality police services to the people of Minnesota. I am seeking the Second Vice President role because I believe the MCPA’s voice is more important than ever.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

My priority would be to continue advancing the mission of the MCPA by serving as a strong advocate for chiefs across Minnesota, regardless of agency size or geography. Having worked alongside leaders from both small and large departments, I understand that while our resources may differ, many of our challenges are shared. The Association must remain a unified and supportive voice for all chiefs.

A continued focus on legislative priorities will remain critical. Our profession faces complex and evolving policy discussions, and the MCPA must continue to be proactive and advocating for sound public safety policy and ensuring departments have the tools and resources necessary to serve their communities effectively.

Maintaining high-quality professional development and leadership training is also essential to prepare current and future leaders to meet evolving expectations. I will continue to ensure the Association remains strong, sustainable, and well-positioned to support its members into the future.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

I have been a member of the MCPA since 2012 and have served as Treasurer since 2022. In that role, I have supported legislative advocacy, helped develop the Association’s legislative priorities, contributed to strategic planning, and advanced professional development initiatives. I have presented at past Leadership Academies, facilitated a critical incident debrief at ETI, and am currently assisting in the development of the new Executive Leadership College. Our agency is currently participating in the MCPA’s accreditation program (MNLEAP).

I previously served as an MCPA Region Representative and am a past president of the Ramsey County Chiefs of Police Association. I remain active in several national and regional professional organizations to strengthen collaboration and advance policing across Minnesota.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

I have over 28 years of law enforcement experience, including the past five years as Chief of Police. I am a graduate of the 262nd Session of the FBI National Academy and hold a Master’s Degree in Police Leadership from the University of St. Thomas. I have completed the IACP Leadership in Police Organizations Program, the IACP Women’s Leadership Institute, and the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar.

I have served as an adjunct professor in the University of St. Thomas Police Leadership Master’s Program and currently serve as an instructor for the BCA Leadership Training Program. I am also a board member of the Suburban Ramsey Family Collaborative and serve on the Ramsey County Violence Reduction Leadership Group. As Chief, I have testified before legislative committees on public safety matters and remain actively engaged in advancing policies that strengthen our profession and support Minnesota communities.

Terry Stier, Chief

AGENCY: Belle Plaine
COUNTY: Scott
POSITION RUNNING FOR: 3rd Vice President

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I have served on the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association Board of Directors since being elected in 2021.  I am asking for your vote as I am running for 3rd Vice President. During my time with MCPA I have taken on any task that was offered, including Chair - MCPA ETI Conference, POST Board Ensuring Police Excellence and Improving Community Relations Advisory Council, Local Representative Criminal Justice Information Systems Advisory Policy Board. I look forward to continuing these tasks while taking on the role of 3rd Vice President.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

My priority has always been to be a voice for the small to mid-size law enforcement agencies across our state. My priority as your 3rd Vice President will be to remove the stigma that the MCPA only works for the metro agencies.  After serving on the board for the last three years, this is simply not true. Our current board, and Executive Director make decisions that improve policing statewide. We are all in this together, no matter how big or small your agency is.  Over the last three years, I believe the stigma is diminishing due to initiatives set forward by the MCPA Board.  My goal is to bridge gaps between agencies and ensure that relationships are not based on size or geographic location.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

While serving on the Board, I have taken every opportunity to advance the mission of the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association. I have participated in Twin Cities Security Partnership meetings, the Leadership Summit on Impaired Driving, and most recently the Law Enforcement Opioid Summit, collaborating with partners on critical public safety initiatives.

I have supported MCPA programs by assisting with the Leadership Academy and CLEO & Command trainings, strengthening professional connections and promoting leadership development across the state. In addition, I have served as Chair of the Executive Training Institute (ETI) Committee, helping guide one of the Association’s premier professional development events.

Through this involvement, I have built strong relationships with police and sheriff’s departments throughout Minnesota and remain committed to being present, engaged, and supportive whenever needed.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

I started my career in Law Enforcement in 2003, was promoted to Investigator in 2008, Sergeant in 2015 and Chief in 2020.  I have a passion for learning, training and walking through career doors that open into areas that offer a new objectives or something unfamiliar so I can learn and move forward in a humble way.  MCPA has opened many doors for my career path and I have learned to take on any given task and complete it to the best of my abilities.  I give back by assisting with trainings, summits, meetings and offering suggestions that I feel will move MCPA forward.  Thank you for this opportunity and I would appreciate your vote for MCPA 3rd Vice President.

Dan Wills, Chief

AGENCY: Rogers
COUNTY: Hennepin
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Treasurer (3-year term)

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I am seeking a position on the Board of Directors, with a particular interest in serving in the role of Treasurer, because I am deeply committed to advancing the professionalism, leadership, and continued strength of law enforcement across Minnesota. Our state is fortunate to have some of the most highly trained and dedicated police officers in the country, and that level of excellence is driven by the chiefs who guide their agencies every day.

Since becoming a member of the MCPA in 2014, I have realized firsthand the tremendous value the Association provides to its members. Over the past several years, and during a time of significant challenge and change for our profession, the support, guidance, and collective experience within the Association has been invaluable. I personally relied heavily on the MCPA during my first year as chief as I navigated the responsibilities of that role with limited mentorship and guidance. That experience reinforced my appreciation for the role the Association plays in supporting chiefs and strengthening our profession.

Additionally, my time serving as President of the Hennepin County Chiefs of Police Association gave me the opportunity to advocate for chiefs representing agencies of many different sizes and communities. That experience strengthened my understanding of the importance of ensuring that all chiefs, whether from large metropolitan departments or smaller suburban and rural agencies, have a voice and feel represented within our Association.

As Treasurer, I would be committed to responsible financial stewardship, transparency, and ensuring that the Association’s resources are managed strategically to support its mission, training initiatives, advocacy efforts, and member services. I believe strong financial management is essential to maintaining the long-term stability and effectiveness of our Association.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

If elected, one of my primary priorities is to ensure the Association continues to effectively represent and support the over 500 current and retired law enforcement leaders across Minnesota, while maintaining strong financial stewardship in the role of Treasurer. The MCPA serves agencies of many different sizes and geographic regions, and it is important that the Association’s resources are managed in a way that equitably supports the diverse needs of its membership.

My perspective is shaped by experience in two very different environments. I previously served in a larger agency with approximately 70 officers, and I now lead a department of 24 officers. This has given me a balanced understanding of the challenges chiefs face across the state. Leading a smaller, outer-ring agency has given me a deeper appreciation of the unique pressures placed on smaller agencies. This includes limited resources, the need for mentorship and leadership support, and the importance of strong collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions.

At the same time, my experience in a larger organization provided insight into the heightened public scrutiny, complex operational demands, and policy challenges that chiefs in more urban environments have navigated, particularly in recent years. These differing realities highlight the importance of ensuring the Association’s programs, advocacy efforts, and professional development opportunities are supported by thoughtful and responsible financial planning.

As Treasurer, I would continue the great work that has been done to prioritize transparency, accountability, and careful management of the Association’s resources to ensure we continue to support its strategic goals and provide value to its members. I would also work collaboratively with the Board to ensure financial decisions reflect the needs of chiefs across the state and sustain the long-term stability of the Association.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

Since becoming a member of the MCPA twelve years ago, I have consistently supported its mission by engaging in professional collaboration and promoting the Association’s initiatives. Throughout my career, I have valued the role the MCPA plays in connecting chiefs across Minnesota, sharing best practices, and providing a unified voice for law enforcement leadership.

In 2023, I had the honor of serving as President of the Hennepin County Chiefs of Police Association (HCCPA). In that role, I worked closely with the Association’s membership and collaborated with the MCPA to address regional issues, share resources, and advocate for chiefs at both local and statewide levels. This experience strengthened my appreciation for the importance of strong partnerships between regional and statewide professional organizations, as well as the value of responsible governance and organizational leadership.

In 2024, I served as Chair of the Anoka-Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force, where I represented a coalition of agencies across two counties. In that role, I helped coordinate regional enforcement strategies, operational collaboration, and interagency partnerships to address complex public safety challenges. Leading a multi-agency task force also required careful oversight of shared resources and collaborative decision-making, which reinforced the importance of accountability and transparency.

Additionally, I have remained involved in several broader professional law enforcement organizations, including the FBI National Academy Associates, the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and continued participation in the Hennepin County Chiefs of Police Association.

Collectively, these experiences have strengthened my commitment to collaborative leadership and responsible organizational stewardship. They have also provided me with a broad perspective on the challenges, opportunities, and priorities facing law enforcement leaders across Minnesota. If given the opportunity to serve as Treasurer, I would bring that perspective to the role while emphasizing sound financial management, transparency, and ensuring the Association’s resources are managed responsibly to support its mission and provide lasting value to its members.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

I bring 27 years of sworn law enforcement experience, marked by progressive leadership roles, regional collaboration, and a strong commitment to professional development. I began my career with the Maple Grove Police Department in 1998, where I advanced through the ranks and ultimately served as Captain. In 2019, I was appointed Chief of Police for the Rogers Police Department, a position I have held for nearly seven years. In that role, I have focused on strategic leadership, responsible resource management, managing significant organizational growth, strengthening local and regional partnerships, and advancing community-focused policing initiatives.

Education and Professional Development - my education and professional training have been centered on leadership, organizational management, and executive-level law enforcement development.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management & Criminal Justice Administration – Metro State University – St. Paul
• Master’s Degree in Leadership and Management – Concordia University – St. Paul
• Graduate, Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (Class #280) – also served as Class Treasurer – Minneapolis
• Graduate, FBI National Academy (Class #262) – Quantico, VA
• Former Adjunct Professor, Concordia University – St. Paul
• Additional executive leadership and specialized law enforcement training

Leadership and Advisory Experience - throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to serve in several leadership and advisory roles that required collaboration across multiple agencies and levels of government.

• Member, FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force – contributing to federal, state, and local intelligence coordination and threat mitigation efforts.
• Former Chair, Anoka-Hennepin Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force – provided leadership for a multi-agency regional task force representing departments across two counties, helping guide investigative priorities, policy development, and operational coordination.
• Former President, Hennepin County Chiefs of Police Association – represented police chiefs throughout the county, facilitated collaboration on policy and legislative issues, and strengthened communication between local, county, and state public safety leaders.
• Former Board Member, CornerHouse – supported governance and strategic direction for an organization dedicated to child-centered forensic interviewing and advocacy services for victims of abuse.

Military Service

I am a United States Army veteran and completed two active-duty deployments. My military service reinforced the values of disciplined leadership, teamwork, accountability, and mission-focused decision making.

These professional, academic, and leadership experiences have provided me with a broad perspective on the challenges facing public safety leaders today. They have also strengthened my understanding of organizational governance, strategic planning, and responsible resource management. If given the opportunity to serve as Treasurer, I would apply that experience to continue the excellent work that has been done to ensure strong financial stewardship, transparency, and thoughtful oversight of the Association’s resources in support of its mission and membership.

Thank you very much for your consideration!

Brian Mueller, Chief

AGENCY: Stillwater 
COUNTY: Washington
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Sergeant-At-Arms (1-year term)

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I currently serve as the Sergeant at Arms for the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association and have since 2022.  I am excited to continue in this role, working for all Chiefs of Police in the State of Minnesota.  I am proud to be in this profession and I want to be part of the innovation that comes with the changing times and expectations.  I feel now more than ever; law enforcement needs a strong collective voice.  I am running to continue as MCPA Sergeant at Arms to carry on with the great work that has already been done by this association.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

My priorities with the Association have not changed in the last year.  First, I believe we should collectively serve as support of, and a voice for, all chiefs in the state.  I have worked for small and large agencies and I realize some of the differences in resources and access.  I intend to be that voice for all agencies in the state, especially the smaller agencies.  Regular communication is the key to success and I will work to ensure that.  Secondly, I know that our profession is facing some challenges in the way of legislative action.  I want to continue the involvement that MCPA has had on the front end.  We can have great influence at the Capital, helping stop harmful legislation and being a partner in positive changes.  Lastly, I am a huge proponent of the training provided by MCPA.  The work that MCPA does to educate our profession and develop our leaders is needed now more than ever and I hope to continue that.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

I am honored to serve as the Chair for Region 11 (Washington County).  I have previously worked with MCPA during my time as the Washington County Sheriff’s Office's Chief Deputy on legislative issues such as forfeiture reform, marijuana legalization and Drug Task Force Funding.  I have seen the influence that the Law Enforcement Coalition brings to the Capital when presenting as a unified voice.  I have previously presented on law enforcement response to suicidal individuals for MCPA.  I am the Past-President of the Special Operations Training Association of Minnesota (SOTA).  I have also served as the Chair of the Violent Crime Coordinating Council (VCCC) which oversees the states Violent Crime Enforcement Teams (VCET’s).  I recently represented the state Chiefs of Police and the state Sheriffs on the Aiding and Abetting Felony Murder Task Force.  Currently I am appointed to the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission. I also teach at the MCPA CLEO & Command Academy

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

28 years law enforcement experience serving three different agencies as Officer/Deputy, Narcotics Detective, Patrol Sergeant, Drug Task Force Commander, SWAT Operator/TL/Commander, Investigative and Patrol Commander, Chief Deputy and Stillwater Police Chief.  I received my B.A. in Criminal Justice, minor in Business Administration and a M.A. in Police Leadership and Education from the University of St. Thomas.  I am a graduate of PERF's Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP) - Class 86

Jeremy Clifton, Chief

AGENCY: Mankato
COUNTY: Blue Earth, Nicollet, and Le Sueur
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director (3-year term)

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

My name is Jeremy Clifton, and I currently serve as the Director/Chief of Mankato Public Safety Police. I am committed to advancing professional law enforcement leadership across Minnesota and would be honored to serve the association and its members in this capacity.

As a chief serving in southern Minnesota, I believe it is important that agencies from Greater Minnesota have strong representation and a meaningful voice in the direction of our profession. If elected, I would work to responsibly represent the perspectives, challenges, and opportunities facing agencies our agencies while supporting the collective mission of the association statewide.

Governance & Strategy

Strong governance and strategic leadership are essential to the continued success of the MCPA. As a board member, I would support thoughtful planning and responsible oversight to ensure the association continues to evolve with the changing landscape of public safety. My focus would be on maintaining a clear mission, supporting the professional needs of Police Chiefs across Minnesota, and helping guide the organization toward long-term sustainability and effectiveness.

Advocacy & Representation

The MCPA serves as a critical voice for professional law enforcement in Minnesota. I am committed to supporting balanced, practical advocacy efforts that reflect the realities faced by Chiefs and their agencies in legislative fronts. This includes constructive engagement with policymakers and community leaders to ensure that public safety professionals have a respected voice in legislative and policy discussions affecting our communities.

Support & Training

Professional development remains one of MCPA’s most valuable services. Programs such as the ETI, Fall Summit, CLEO & Command Academy, along with the newer Executive Leadership College provide Chiefs and Command Staff with essential leadership training in areas such as budgeting, human resources, policy development, and organizational management. I strongly support continued investment in these programs to prepare both current and future leaders in Minnesota law enforcement.  Continuous development and proper succession planning provides the gateway to a stronger future and will be an area of intense focus.

Member Services

One of the greatest strengths of the MCPA is the network of Chiefs who support one another. I believe in strengthening peer-to-peer support, mentorship opportunities, and resource sharing, particularly for newly appointed chiefs who may benefit from experienced guidance. The Mentorship Program is a start to this teamwork, and additional opportunities need to be discovered.  Building strong connections among members helps ensure the success of agencies across the state.

Community & Public Relations

Public trust and strong community relationships remain foundational to effective policing. The MCPA can play an important role in providing Chiefs with tools, guidance, and best practices to strengthen communication and community engagement. Supporting Chiefs in these efforts ultimately strengthens the profession and the communities we serve.  Our agency was blessed to receive grant funding from the MCPA network, and those efforts must continue to support our collective mission.

Serving on the MCPA Board of Directors would be a privilege. I would approach this role with humility, professionalism, and a commitment to responsibly represent the diverse agencies and leaders who make up Minnesota’s law enforcement community.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

I would focus on three key areas. First, continuing to support high-quality leadership development opportunities such as the CLEO and Command Academy so Chiefs and Command Staff are equipped to manage the increasingly complex challenges of modern policing. Second, ensuring that MCPA remains a credible and balanced voice in legislative and public safety discussions affecting our profession and the communities we serve. Third, expanding peer mentorship and collaboration opportunities so Chiefs—especially those new to the role—have access to trusted guidance, resources, and professional support.

Ultimately, my priority would be to help ensure the Association remains responsive to the needs of its members while promoting professionalism, leadership, and strong community relationships throughout Minnesota law enforcement.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

I have remained actively engaged with the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association through participation in several of its professional development and networking opportunities. I have attended the CLEO and Command Academy, the Executive Training Institute, and the Fall Summit, all of which provide valuable leadership development and collaboration opportunities for Minnesota law enforcement executives.

I attended the International Association of Chiefs of Police last year in Denver, Colorado, and will continue to represent our state and region in networking at this conference.  In addition, I have supported regional engagement by hosting Region 9 meetings, helping provide opportunities for chiefs and command staff to share ideas, discuss emerging issues, and strengthen professional relationships across southern Minnesota.

In my role with Mankato Public Safety Police, I also bring a unique public safety leadership perspective. I serve not only as Police Chief but also as Fire Chief and oversee Emergency Management operations for the city. This integrated public safety model provides me with a broader operational and strategic perspective on leadership, interagency coordination, and emergency preparedness.  This is experience that I believe adds value to professional discussions within the Association and among Minnesota’s law enforcement leaders.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

I bring 28 years of Minnesota law enforcement experience serving in patrol operations, criminal investigations, first-line police supervision, and executive leadership roles. I currently serve as Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police for Mankato Public Safety Police, where I operate within an integrated public safety model that also includes serving as Fire Chief and overseeing Emergency Management operations. My leadership responsibilities include agency administration, personnel supervision, policy development, budgeting, and multi-agency coordination. I have remained actively engaged with the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association through attendance at the CLEO & Command Academy, the Executive Training Institute, and the Fall Summit, and I have hosted Region 9 meetings to strengthen collaboration among chiefs in southern Minnesota. I also represent the City of Mankato and our agency in a variety of local partnerships and advisory groups focused on prevention, accountability, and recovery. Throughout my career, I have served as an instructor on a variety of law enforcement topics and remain a strong advocate for advanced in-service training and continuous development, particularly strengthening field training programs, to ensure new officers are well prepared for the complex demands of modern policing.

Matt DuRose, Chief/Director of Public Safety

AGENCY: West Hennepin Public Safety 
COUNTY: Hennepin
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director (3-year term)

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I am in my 26th year in public safety service, with the last year as Chief for West Hennepin Public Safety after serving 25 years in Mankato, the last 17 years in Command and Executive level positions. I have had the good fortune of being a member of the Association for several years now and I have benefited from the work of the Board, staff, and committees. I am applying to join the Board to continue the rich tradition of promoting and developing quality leadership and management for the public’s safety, advancing the science and art of police services, and fostering cooperation among police administrators in matters of mutual professional interest.

I am interested in advocating for the needs of police professionals across the state and joining the MCPA Board will give me a unique opportunity to do this on a much broader level. It is important to engage in advocacy to support our officers as they serve in their communities and to help take care of those who have served before us.

The Association has a strong commitment to the development of the next generation of law enforcement leaders, which has long been a passion of mine. I joined the ETI Committee this year to be more directly involved in the planning of the Conference. Throughout my career, I have worked to develop my network and collaborate across the profession, which will only increase as a member of the Board. It will give me a chance to meet more law enforcement leaders and learn more about the issues that are impacting their departments and communities.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

My priority for the Association would be to increase involvement in legislative advocacy and the development of best practices across the state. I have engaged legislators in my areas of responsibility throughout my career, having recognized the importance of legislative advocacy. The issues that are impacting our organizations and communities are typically not specific to a single organization or community and we must work together to address these issues. There is a great deal of knowledge and experience across the state, and we need to continue to find ways to tap into that knowledge and experience to expand involvement in the issues that are impacting us all.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

I recently became a voting member of the Association after several years as an associate member. I joined the 2026 ETI committee and will continue with that committee regardless of the outcome of this election. After joining West Hennepin Public Safety, I have also joined Hennepin County’s Criminal Justice Behavioral Health Leadership Group as a member, and I am the Secretary for the Lakes Area Planning Group. I am an associate member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Police Executive Research Forum.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

Experience:
West Hennepin Public Safety
Chief/Director of Public Safety 2025-present
Mankato Department of Public Safety
Deputy Director 2019-2025
Commander 2008-2025
Patrol Officer 2000-2008

Education:
Master’s of Public Administration | Minnesota State University-Mankato | 2017
Bachelor of Arts-Law Enforcement | Minnesota State University-Mankato | 1999

Professional Development:
Senior Management Institute for Police-Session 89 | Police Executive Research Forum | 2023
Leading, Educating, and Developing (LEAD) | University of Virginia | 2019
Supervision and Management Certificate | MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension | 2010

Advisory panels:
MN Chief’s Association Mental Health Best Practices Work Group—2022
Advisory Panel to the Attorney General for Opioid Settlement Funds—2021

Board service:
Mankato Family YMCA 2016-2024; Board Chair 2022-2024
Project for Teens 2016-2025
Kato Public Charter School 2021-2024

Mitch Johnsrud, Chief

AGENCY: Starbuck
COUNTY: Pope
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director (3-year term)

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I am applying for the Board of Directors position to provide representation for out-state Chief’s and to share challenges in our area with the MCPA board and regional representatives, and to provide input from our Regional Chiefs on any legislative discussions that will have an impact on law enforcement.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

My focus will be to continue to discuss solutions that will benefit the MCPA Association and our law enforcement community and to make new connections with other law enforcement CLEO’s around the state. Also, also to gather input from other Regions and come up with new ideas that would benefit our organization.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

I have been MCPA Board Member for the past 4 years and a member of the MN MCPA and Region IV Chief's Association. Since 2013, and I am on my second year as the Region IV President. Since 2013 I have also been member of the following organizations: West Central Drug and Violent Crimes Taskforce, West Central Area SWAT Team, Association of Minnesota Emergency Managers, and a member of the Pope County Crime Victims Taskforce.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

For my education I have an Associate Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Northland Community College and Associate Arts Degree from Fergus Falls Community College. I have 20 years of experience in law enforcement and is a veteran of the Minnesota Army National Guard, which I served 8 years of service. I was deployed overseas for a year for a peace keeping mission in Kosovo. During my military career I served as a sergeant and team leader for the personal security team, which they provided security for the company commander. I am a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4582, which I have been the Commander for the past two years. In 2006 with the Starbuck Police Department as a full-time patrol/school resource officer. Between 2006 and 2011 I also worked as a part-time patrol officer for the Glenwood and Benson Police Departments. In 2011, I changed departments and worked for the Benson Police Department as a full-time patrol officer. In 2013, I went back and worked full-time for the Starbuck Police Department as a patrol officer, and then in 2014 I became the Starbuck Police Chief, which he still currently serves full-time. I also have a secondary job as the part-time Chief of Police for the City of Lowry (Population 300). I have five years of experience as an operator for the West Central SWAT Team and for the past four years his role on the team has been a negotiator. I also have training in the following areas: Crisis Intervention Team Specialist, Cornerhouse Forensic Interviewer, Crime Free Multi-Housing Specialist, Emergency Medical Responder Certified, Pursuit Intervention Tactics Certified, Traffic Criminal/Drug Interdiction Certified, DMT-Operator, SFST/ARIDE certified, and certified for all MN POST mandated courses. I have also been a member of the MCPA Board of Directors for the past four years and prior to that I served as the MCPA Region 4 Representative, and President for 4 years.

Sara Miller, Chief

AGENCY: Gibbon
COUNTY: Sibley
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director (3-year term)

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I have been in this career since 2005 and have always been willing to join boards and be a part of things outside of my organizations to add my perspective from my experiences as well as learn from those other organizations and members. I had contemplated applying as ETI has been a wonderful experience since becoming a chief in 2024. The MCPA has also been an amazing resource for me in my small agency by reaching out to other CLEO's with questions and looking for assistance and also for learning at all of the trainings I have participated in since becoming the CLEO in Gibbon. I believe I have unique experiences as I was a dispatcher from 2005 to 2023 and a deputy from 2008-2016, a detective from 2016-2019, a sergeant from 2019-2024 and now a chief. I also a part of the Litchfield City Council from 2017-2024 which is always an experience. I learned tremendously in each of those positions, and I believe I would learn from the experiences and members of this board as well as open up even more resources to assist me in my small agency. I also am very aware how difficult it is to get people to join boards as I have been a volunteer on our Watercade Festival Board for four years now (three year term).

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

I have been working in this profession since 2005 when times appeared easier. In talking to others who were near retirement at that time, it seemed times were even easier in the previous years. We only see this profession becoming more difficult and a less desired profession to go into, due to the way we are perceived, not only by many community members, but more from those who really know nothing about how our job works and yet unfortunately get to make the rules and regulations of how we do our jobs. I want to be a part of an organization where instead of just venting behind my closed door, I can try to help all of us have a voice. We all know the majority of agencies in Minnesota are smaller than 10 officers and I would like to have those agencies represented from an agency like mine where we only have two full-time officers and a community of 800 population. I would be a member that would help where I am able and do my best to support the agencies and officers who work in this often times, demonized career. I think having a range of knowledge and both life and job experiences is important to make an organization flourish.

I wouldn't mind being a member of one of the marked committees, I think I would choose ETI over Legislative, but would be okay placed on either. I also believe at this time I could make all of the meetings in person on Thursday mornings. I was advised to apply for Treasurer if I could attend all meetings, or Director if I couldn't. With never being on the Board before, I am willing to do either of those positions, with that being said, I have four kids from 10-18, one of which is currently a Litchfield Princess through July of this summer and also currently at AIT for the National Guard and graduating from high school in May and having her party in June. I don't believe at this time it will cause any scheduling conflicts, but I am a mom that tries very hard not to miss my kid's activities. So with that being said, I will mark Director for now and if someone wants to reach out to me to have the conversation reference Treasurer, I would be happy to chat.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

I have attended trainings and conferences provided through the MCPA and talked to current and past board members. I was previously on the MN Alliance on Crime (MAC) Board from 2012 to 2016, where I had the roles of Vice President and President. I, along with another member of the sheriff's office I worked for at the time, re-organized the Sheriff's Deputy Association, where I had the roles of Secretary/Treasurer and President.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

I obtained my AAS Degree in Accounting in May of 2000 and my AAS degree in Criminal Justice in May of 2008, both from Ridgewater of Willmar. I attended the LE Skills Program in Alexandria and obtained my certificate in August of 2008.

In January of 2005 I became a FT Dispatcher at the Meeker County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) until I became a FT Deputy Sheriff in March of 2009 where I then switched to PT in dispatch through 2023. In September of 2016, I became a FT Detective at the MCSO until 2019 when I became a Patrol Sergeant through March of 2024. In April of 2024, I became the Chief of Police at the Gibbon Police Department.

Above I listed positions I had held on boards, and I am currently the Secretary of the Litchfield Watercade Board of Directors. I also listed above that I was on the Litchfield City Council from November of 2017 to March of 2024.

I have attended trainings including, but not limited to the BCA Investigative Certificate Program, ARMER Radio Train the Trainer courses, CornerHouse, Level One Leadership Course, CIT, Active Shooter Train the Trainer, DMT, FTO, and many more. I have attended CLEO & Command, ETI, Death Investigator's Conferences, Missing Persons Conferences and many other trainings and conferences over the years. I graduated the DARE Academy and taught DARE for many years. I also finished the Sheriff's Association ICLD Certificate training. I am currently working on obtaining my BCA Senior Leadership Certificate.

Prior to law enforcement, I managed a restaurant for almost 18 years and worked in the accounting field for a short period of time.

Matt Sackett, Chief

AGENCY: Eden Prairie
COUNTY: Hennepin
POSITION RUNNING FOR: Director (3-year term)

Why are you applying for a Board of Directors' position?

I currently serve as a Director on the MN Chiefs of Police Association Board of Directors.  I am applying to serve a second term in order to continue to do all I can to support the mission of the MCPA.  I applied three years ago because I wanted to help promote the professional policing we have here in Minnesota. It has been an extremely rewarding and eye-opening experience.  I greatly value the opportunity to serve and help other law enforcement professionals throughout the state.

If elected, what would be your priority for the Association?

When I ran for a board position three years ago, I knew I needed to learn more about the challenges facing law enforcement agencies of all sizes in Minnesota.  Policing in Minnesota can only be successful if we do all we can to address the needs and complexities of all agencies within the state.  We are all fighting for talented people, but the impact on small departments regarding personnel, technology, reporting requirements, etc. can be daunting to unmanageable at times.  I will work to continue our efforts to make sure we are gearing our MCPA Board decisions towards agencies of all sizes.

Describe your involvement with the MCPA or other professional law enforcement associations.

I have had the honor and privilege to serve on the MCPA Board of Directors for three years.   I have been on the ETI planning committee for four years and assisted on and off with the legislative and awards committees for MCPA.  I am a member of the Hennepin County Chiefs of Police Association and have served as the Liaison Chief to the Hennepin County Regional Response Training Advisory Board for five years.

Please provide a list of your background and credentials, including education, training, advisory positions, and any other relevant experience.

• Approaching 29 years in sworn law enforcement.  Five years with Hopkins PD and 23+ years with Eden Prairie.
• Approaching five years as Police Chief in Eden Prairie - nine years of command experience
• BA - Sociology/Criminology U of MN Twin Cities
• MA - Public Safety Administration St. Mary's University
• BCA Supervision and management Certificates
• BCA - Leadership in Police Organizations LPO Certificate
• FBI - LEEDA Trilogy
• MCPA - Leadership Academy