The NJ Police Chief Magazine - Volume 32, Number 4 | Page 24

Belmar Police Chief Tina Scott Honored with the Outstanding Women in Government Award joined in recognizing Chief Scott’ s achievements.
By Jonathan Jaffe
Chief Scott( second from left) stands with fellow Outstanding Women in Government Award honorees
Chief Scott delivers her remarks as part of the New Jersey League of Municipalities Women in Municipal Government program
Belmar Police Chief Tina Scott, the borough’ s first female police chief, was formally recognized for her distinguished service and leadership at the New Jersey League of Municipalities( NJLM) Annual Conference in Atlantic City on November 19. Chief Scott received the Outstanding Women in Government Award, presented by the League’ s Women in Municipal Government( WiMG) committee.
Now in her fifth year leading the Belmar Police Department, which also serves neighboring Lake Como, Chief Scott was celebrated for her“ contribution and dedicated service toward the advancement of women officials in municipal government.”
The ceremony drew municipal officials and police leaders from across New Jersey, including Chief Andrew Caggiano, president of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, and fellow Monmouth County police chiefs who
“ Standing here tonight, I am reminded that no one achieves anything alone; this moment is not just mine,” Chief Scott said in accepting the award.“ This award is also for the Belmar Police Department and my fellow Monmouth County police chiefs, who serve with integrity every day, and to my mentors who guided me and the communities that trusted me to lead.”
Chief Scott reflected on what first drew her to public safety: a desire to be an officer who listened, who showed up, and who worked to build bridges.“ As chief,” she said,“ those commitments have only grown stronger.”
“ Leadership has no gender, and every barrier broken widens the path for those who follow.”
She emphasized that each milestone achieved by women in government and law enforcement opens doors for the next generation.“ To the young women who feel the need to serve, know that there is a place for you. Your voice, your perspective and your strength are needed,” Chief Scott said.
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