KANSAS CITY, Missouri – History was made in Overland Park on Tuesday when it was announced that the city has hired its first female police chief.
According to a press release from the city of Overland Park, Doreen Jokerst has served as assistant vice chancellor for public safety and chief of police at the University of Colorado Boulder for the past six years.
City Manager Lori Curtis Luther made her selection after receiving feedback from members of the police department and city residents.
“Doreen brings extensive experience to our team, with service and expertise in a variety of police roles. She is a lifelong learner and a pioneer in modern, progressive community policing practices,” Luther said in the release. “I am confident her leadership and focus on inclusivity will improve our department and our community in the future.”
Jokerst served with the Parker, Colorado Police Department for nearly 20 years, rising to the rank of commander, the press release said.
“Overland Park is an outstanding city with a first-class police department, and I look forward to working with the community and all members of the organization,” Jokerst said in the release. “I can’t wait to work with our officers and community and call Overland Park my home.”
The police department has 280 sworn officers among its 330 employees.
Former Overland Park Police Chief Frank Donchez resigned in September 2023.
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