To continue Golden Valley Police Chief Virgil Green’s Black History Month series, this next feature highlights Officer Jordan Monson, who made history in 2024 as the first Black female patrol officer to complete the Golden Valley Police Department’s (GVPD) Field Training Officer (FTO) program.
“Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be a police officer,” says Monson. “Right out of high school, I started pursing my degree in law enforcement.” She earned an associate degree in law enforcement from North Hennepin Community College and completed skills raining at Hennepin Technical College in summer 2020, during a challenging time for the profession.
“I think the reason I wanted to become an officer boils down to my desire to be a good role model to my siblings and to others—especially kids—showing them that we can be anybody we choose to be. Representation is extremely important.” Monson added that she has always seen herself as a caregiver and protector, values she feels align with her role in law enforcement. “I truly can’t imagine myself doing any other job”
Before joining the GVPD in 2021, Monson worked for the Minneapolis Police Department. She also briefly worked at the Ramsey County Juvenile Detention Center.
“I can’t believe it’s already been almost three years since I started here,” says Monson. “I’m grateful for all the wonderful opportunities I’ve had, and I look forward to all that’s to come.”