National Police Woman Day

The United States Marshals Service (USMS) celebrates annually National Police Woman Day. National Police Woman Day is celebrated on September 12th and it recognizes the contributions of past and current law enforcement officers.

In 1884 the agency recognized the first female deputy U.S. Marshal, Phoebe Couzins. who later became the first female U.S. Marshal in 1887. Currently, female deputy U.S. Marshals continue to make an impact in their roles serving in the Agency.

Presently, Sheri Robinson, a Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal with the agency’s Body Worn Camera Program Office, is one of them. Robinson has worked with the USMS since 2004 beginning her career in the Southern District of New York. Robinson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration & Planning and a Master’s Degree in Protective Management, both acquired from John Jay College, New York. 

Throughout her career Robinson worked with Judicial Security, Fugitive Investigations, Justice Prisoner and Alien Transportation Systems, Prisoner Operations, Human Resources Division, and other Special Missions. Robinson stated, “I always knew that I wanted a career in federal law enforcement. I encourage young females every time I have an opportunity to apply for a career in this field. I always say to them you can do this job! It's not only for men, law enforcement is an inclusive profession.”

“I tell interested candidates if this is something that you really are passionate about, if you're passionate about your community, and making a difference, then you should join the Marshal Service because our job is so diverse.” Robinson said.  

Furthermore, Robinson serves on the USMS 30x30 committee established by USMS Director Ronald L. Davis, working to increase the number of women in the agency.

The USMS has committed to work to increase the amount of women in recruitment classes by signing the 30x30 pledge. 30x30 is a national initiative to increase representation of women participation in police recruitment to 30% by 2030.

Robinson stated “When the agency made that pledge, we saw that there was a need for it for several reasons. Past studies show having more women in an agency creates more positivity because of our demeanor, how we resolve issues, and how we’re able to connect and empathize with others.”

Women in law enforcement face several barriers. However, Robinson and members of the 30x30 team are working diligently to counter these barriers, perceived or real. Robinson works on the cultural subcommittee, looking into standardizing access to lactation and wellness rooms, enhancing a diverse workforce throughout divisions, and increasing training across the field to foster an inclusive workforce.

Robinson said “National Police Woman Day is the perfect time to spread the word about the work of women in the USMS and to encourage one another as brothers and sisters in law enforcement.