Throughout her career, Sandy Jo MacArthur has embodied grit, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to following her dreams—even when others doubted her. Her story, as shared in Determined to Be Extraordinary, is a powerful testament to what can be achieved when we refuse to place limits on ourselves and stay true to our vision.
Sandy Jo’s path started with a desire for adventure and new experiences. As a young girl growing up in the Midwest, she dreamed of scuba diving and exploring the world, a passion that would eventually lead her to pursue a career as a police officer at the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). At a time when women in policing were few, she challenged the stereotypes, proving her strength and determination, both mentally and physically, every step of the way.
“When I first joined the LAPD, there were fewer than 200 women on the force. By the time I retired 35 years later, that number had grown to over 1,900.”
Her journey wasn’t without its challenges. Facing doubts from colleagues about her ability to handle the stresses of policing, Sandy Jo refused to let these prejudices define her. Instead, she chose to stay curious and work even harder, relying on her inner strength and the confidence she built through rigorous preparation.
Rising Through the Ranks
From a junior officer to one of the three assistant chiefs of the LAPD, Sandy Jo’s career exemplifies what happens when you combine hard work, determination, and a refusal to accept the status quo. Along the way, she pushed for more inclusivity, helping shape the department into one where both men and women, from all backgrounds, could thrive and serve their communities.
A Life of Adventure and Service
Even as she broke barriers in law enforcement, Sandy Jo never lost her love for adventure. Whether it was scuba diving in the Galapagos or going on safaris in Africa, she carried her sense of wonder and exploration throughout her life. Now, as a retired assistant chief, she continues to volunteer and teach police departments across the country, sharing her expertise on community policing, conflict management, and leadership.
Her message to others is clear: Dream big, stay determined, and never let anyone else define what’s possible for you.
Learn from Sandy Jo’s Story
Sandy Jo’s story is one of many powerful journeys shared in Determined to Be Extraordinary. If you’re looking for inspiration from women who have paved the way in non-traditional careers, I encourage you to explore her full story and the stories of 26 other women in STEM and leadership who are changing the world.
