Seattle , WA
Nicole Powell brings more than 23 years of experience in law enforcement, including over a decade in leadership roles at the New Orleans Police Department. She began her career as a dispatcher before becoming an officer, eventually spending more than 12 years on patrol in the city’s 8th District—home to the iconic French Quarter—and later serving as a detective in the 1st District. Her efforts have been recognized through numerous awards for crime reduction, operational excellence, and community engagement.
Powell most recently served as a Lieutenant on the Superintendent’s (e.g., Chief of Police) staff, where she focused on crime reduction strategies, organizational improvements, and innovative approaches to recruitment. Known for her direct and transparent communication style, she emphasizes the importance of aligning teams around clear, collaborative goals, and building trust through consistent communication.
Powell has earned national recognition for her leadership. She was honored by the International Association of Chiefs of Police as one of its “40 Under 40” and was nominated for the U.S. Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing. In 2015, she was selected as a National Institute of Justice (NIJ) LEADS Scholar, joining a prestigious cohort of mid-level law enforcement professionals from around the United State. The program is committed to advancing evidence-based policing and applying research to real-world challenges.