Tonya Leonard, BS, MSOL
Tonya Leonard, BS, MSOL recently retired after a distinguished 30-year career in law enforcement, including six years serving as Captain with the Detroit Police Department. Over her career, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic management, and a steadfast commitment to community outreach and engagement. She has earned numerous accolades for her service, including Chief Citation Awards, Life Saving Awards, and recognition as the 2020 Women in Blue Officer of the Year, reflecting her dedication to public safety and operational excellence. Tonya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s in Strategic Management and Organizational Leadership from Wayne State University, and she has earned multiple professional certifications that underscore her expertise in law enforcement, crisis management, and organizational leadership. Beyond her operational roles, she has made significant contributions to the law enforcement community, serving as President of the Fallen Officer & Critical Injury Board and as Chair for the Benefits & Protection Department, advocating for officers’ welfare and professional development. Throughout her career, Tonya has specialized in organizational leadership, strategic management, crisis and mental health response, unsheltered-homelessness response-supports, community outreach and engagement, peer support, and youth programming, combining operational expertise with a compassionate, community-centered approach. Her commitment to mentorship, building partnerships, and fostering trust has left a lasting impact on both colleagues and the communities she served, setting a standard of excellence and integrity in law enforcement leadership.
• Wayne State University - BS
• Women in Blue Officer of the Year (2020)
• IACP
• Youth Programing and Mentorship
What do you attribute your success to?
My success over the years comes from faith, resilience, and a strong work ethic, combined with effective communication, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to continuous learning and building strong teams. Along with the support of trusted mentors and meaningful community partnerships. Together, these elements have shaped my professional journey and fueled sustained success.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always prioritize taking care of your team. By investing in their growth, well-being, and success, Ensuring that you provide leadership, psychological safety and exercise emotional intelligence. This principle has guided me to lead with empathy, integrity, accountability, and mentorship; creating a collaborative environment where everyone can thrive and achieve success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry would is to believe in themselves, stay resilient, and never underestimate the power of preparation and hard work. Seek out mentors, continue learning, communicate with confidence, and build strong relationships. Stay true to your values, support other women, and don’t be afraid to take up space and lead. Always strive to balance family and personal responsibilities with professional ambitions.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are character, integrity, and mentorship. I strive to lead and live with honesty and strong moral principles, ensuring that my actions reflect my commitments. Equally, I am dedicated to mentoring others, sharing knowledge and guidance to help them grow and succeed, fostering a culture of support, trust, and development in every environment I am part of.
Locations
Detroit Police Department
Southfield, MI 48034