Her Story
About Victoria
Victoria J. Miner, PhD (c), is a Police Sergeant and Use of Force and Ethics Instructor in the law enforcement and public safety field. Serving with the Evanston Police Department, she has built a career centered on police supervision, strategic leadership, training, community engagement, and professional development. Since beginning her law enforcement career in 2017, she has held a variety of roles including Police Officer, Officer in Charge, Field Training Officer, Juvenile Officer, Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) member, and instructor. Her responsibilities have included supervising personnel, educating officers on regulatory changes and emerging police technologies, promoting adherence to policies and procedures, and participating in community activities and public presentations.
Before entering law enforcement, Victoria spent approximately 10 years as a Disability Benefits Specialist with Wespath Benefits and Investments. She earned a master's degree in Criminal Justice/Police Science from Walden University and holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology with minors in Sociology and Business Administration. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Strategic Leadership at Liberty University and is ABD. Her academic and professional interests include leadership development, victimology, mixed methods research, crisis intervention, ethics, and barriers affecting women's advancement in law enforcement. She has also contributed to juvenile diversion and restorative justice initiatives, reflecting her interest in prevention, community engagement, and alternative approaches to public safety.
Victoria is actively involved in professional organizations including NOBLE, the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, IACLEA, the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, and the National Society of Leadership and Success. She is an FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Graduate and has earned numerous professional certifications and training credentials across law enforcement, leadership, research, crisis intervention, and public safety. Her commitment to professional development and community service was recognized through the Detective Rafaela A. Valdez Memorial Scholarship Award from NOBLE. As a leader and educator, Victoria emphasizes integrity, authenticity, mentorship, continuous growth, and protecting the mental and emotional well-being of professionals working in a demanding field.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Victoria
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think for me being consistent, authenticity, and moving through this field with your full heart has always led me to the best situations and opportunities. It's not always glorious but when you are in a place to make a difference and you start to see that change take place that has been my Northern Star.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Believe in yourself and when those days are happening that aren't so good have something that grounds you whether that's religion or just being with nature because you're gonna have hard days. Protect your mental and emotional space.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Do your research, understand the community, be intentional because it's a career. Find a mentor and a sponsor within your department. Network with organizations like NOBLE that celebrate who you are.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Policing is changing with psychology on the forefront and women are more patient and empathetic which opens leadership opportunities. Challenges include women having to be twice as good, size challenges, and always needing to prove yourself with no off days.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, faith, and the need to always better myself and continue to grow without being stagnant.
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