Sarah Shendy, ’06, found the passion that fueled her career in law enforcement during her time at Kent State University.
Sarah is a police officer and proud Kent State alumna—and in June 2020, she became the first Director of the Ohio Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment, a newly established office in the state legislature. While studying criminal justice, one of Sarah’s professors recommended she attend the Kent State University Police Academy. She did, and that decision sparked a lifelong passion for law enforcement. The work can be demanding, but she is energized by the opportunity to serve the community, protect lives and help children. As a Muslim American woman, Sarah brings a unique perspective to the field. In her new role, she hopes to encourage other young people of diverse backgrounds to consider the profession, noting that their worldviews and personal experiences can provide insight and knowledge for the police forces and communities in which they will serve. Get to know Sarah in her own words.
KSU: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
SS: Being a part of people's recovery, healing and achieving their goals.
KSU: What is your favorite trait in others?
SS: Kindness, empathy and compassion.
KSU: What trait about yourself do you like least?
SS: I am a perfectionist, which is not healthy.
KSU: Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
SS: My mother.
KSU: What is your favorite Kent State memory?
SS: Attending the police academy.
KSU: What is your favorite journey?
SS: Running a full marathon and knowing your body can achieve what the mind believes.
KSU: What is your guilty pleasure?
SS: Binge watching crime shows and crime documentaries.
KSU: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
SS: Being the reason one of my friends converted to Islam.
KSU: If you could come back as one person, who would it be?
SS: My grandmother, I would live a long healthy life and be there longer for my mom.
KSU: What part of your college experience most formed who you are today?
SS: Going to the police academy.
Can’t get enough of Sarah? Neither could we. Check out this longer alumni profile or read the recent Kent State Magazine story about her.