We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women’s voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.
— Sheryl Sandberg

Board of Directors

  • President

    Cathy Madalone, Chief of Police - Pacific Grove PD

    “To make changes, you need a seat at the table; what better table to be seated at than the WLLEF Board of Directors. I am honored to work with such a dynamic group of law enforcement professionals to promote the advancement of women in law enforcement, and excited to see how far and wide we grow on this journey.”

  • Vice President

    Alana Forrest, Retired Captain - Los Gatos PD

    “The goal for starting WLLE so many years ago was to eventually turn it into a platform for support, inspiration and training year round and encourage girls and women of all backgrounds to enter the law enforcement profession.”

  • Secretary

    Cristal Sanchez, Division Director - Youth Center - Monterey County Probation

    “I became a member of WLLEF because leadership training broadens everyone's thinking abilities, allowing leaders to think in innovative and creative ways. It gives us self-confidence, which is essential in our profession. This is WLLE! WLLE inspires me to be better! I have had the opportunity to have great mentors from WLLE and hope to be able to impart with my wisdom and enthusiasm to inspire others.”

  • Treasurer

    Andrea Atkinson, Support Services Manager - Campbell PD

    “I am honored to work with an organization that is dedicated to the unique needs of women in the public safety profession. My goal in joining the board is to ensure this organization is around and running strong for the next generation of women leaders in this profession by sharing my expertise, insight, and passion for this mission.”

  • Board Member

    Alex Gammelgard, Chief of Police - Grass Valley PD

    “The value and impact of women in the policing profession is immeasurable. Historically, and still today, women are underrepresented in the field, yet their contributions are critical. WLLEF helps inspire, train, build-up, and connect women who do such noble and difficult work each day in communities across our state and country.”

  • Board Member

    Cindy Pontes, Assistant Chief - CHP

    “I chose to be involved in WLLEF because I am passionate about promoting leadership, career development, education, and mentoring opportunities for all women working in law enforcement. I am confident we can accomplish incredible things for the law enforcement professionals throughout the state and our nation.”

  • Board Member

    Patricia Tachias, Communications Manager - Beverly Hills PD

    “I have previously served as the President and Secretary on the Women Leaders in Law Enforcement LA County Chapter (WLLE-LAC) Executive Board. I truly enjoyed planning training opportunities for our members as well as engaging in conversation with those that attended the events. I believe WLLEF is doing great work with the trainings & conferences that are planned each year.”

  • Board Member

    Katherine McCoy, Senior Management Analyst - Petaluma PD

    “I am deeply passionate about advancing women's leadership in law enforcement, and I firmly believe that serving on the board of WLLEF offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to this mission. Having personally experienced the transformative power of mentorship in my career, I am inspired by WLLEF's commitment to fostering supportive networks and mentorship opportunities for women in law enforcement.”