Amarillo College has announced the hiring of the first female police chief in the institution's history.
College staff announced Wednesday that Stephanie Birkenfeld has signed on to become the next police chief of Amarillo College. A former student of Amarillo College, Birkenfeld will be taking over following the upcoming retirement of Chief Steve Chance.
Amarillo College staff responded positively to the news of Birkenfeld's hiring, according to a news release.
"Chief Chance did an outstanding job for the College and we are grateful for his service,” said Lyndy Forrester, vice president of employee and organizational development. “But we count ourselves fortunate to have someone who can step in like Stefanie, a skilled professional who has such a passion for the safety and security of our students."
Following the news, Birkenfeld said that she is excited to join Amarillo College as the next police chief for the institution.
“I’m honored and humbled by the faith Amarillo College is placing in me,” Birkenfeld said. “I look forward to implementing what I believe will be some very innovative ideas and policies to help promote the College’s important mission, values and culture of caring.”
Birkenfeld has 11 years of law enforcement experience, serving with the Amarillo Airport Police Department and the Potter County Sheriff's Office.
