Doreen Jokerst is the Chief of Police for the Overland Park Police Department in Kansas. Overland Park is the second-largest city in the state, covering more than 72 square miles and forming part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. With a population of approximately 207,000 residents, the city is served by a nationally accredited police department comprising 278 sworn officers and 85 professional staff. The Overland Park Police Department is recognized for its commitment to public safety excellence, community engagement, and professional policing. Under Chief Jokerst’s leadership, the department continues to emphasize innovation, transparency, and building trust within the community.
Prior to her current role, Chief Jokerst served as the Assistant Vice Chancellor and Chief of Police for the Division of Public Safety at the University of Colorado Boulder. She is a nationally recognized public safety expert and police leader. During her tenure at CU Boulder, she led the development and implementation of innovative, collaborative public safety initiatives, drawing from her extensive experience in emergency management and her leadership roles in national and international public safety organizations.
Chief Jokerst began her law enforcement career in a Denver-metro suburb, rising through the ranks to the position of police commander. She gained broad experience through various specialized and supervisory assignments, and she holds a State of Colorado Emergency Manager certification. She has led numerous critical incident responses, including participation in the multi-state effort following Hurricane Irma in Florida.
Chief Jokerst holds a Doctor of Education in Leadership for Educational Equity (Higher Education), a master’s degree in psychology, and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. She is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, the Senior Management Institute for Police, and the FBI National Academy.
