History has been made and a new chapter of inspiration has begun!
Sgt. Shuntia Lucas has just become the first Black woman ever promoted to the rank of sergeant in the Dane County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office, WMTV News reports. Her achievement marks not only a personal milestone, but a powerful moment of representation for future generations who will see themselves reflected in her success.
“I’m very excited about the promotion,” Sgt. Lucas shared. “It’s a step in the right direction and I’m very excited to be a role model and show the diversity that the Dane County Sheriff’s Office has here.”
Her path into law enforcement was ignited by a personal connection: her high school track coach, Trooper Maurice Burton. “My first interaction, my first time seeing an African American male officer,” she said. “It blew my heart away, what he did with the community, what he did with me as a track athlete, what he did as a liaison at our high school. I said that’s me, that’s what I’m doing.”
Since being sworn into the sheriff’s office in 2018, Sgt. Lucas has leaned into every opportunity to grow and lead, often working closely with Sheriff Kalvin Barrett, who has recognized and encouraged her leadership every step of the way.
“That relationship has really been awesome,” she explained. “Having someone that pushes you to your greatness, sees your leadership potential, and is willing to work beside you and provide you with mentors.”
Her promotion is part of a larger vision for inclusion and advancement in the Wisconsin county. “I know somewhere, someplace there’s going to be a little girl watching this story that’s going to see Shuntia and she’s going to be motivated and she’s going to be inspired to achieve greatness as Shuntia has done in her career,” Sheriff Barrett said.
Sgt. Lucas isn’t new to breaking barriers, she was also the first to be promoted to the rank of D-III booking deputy before this recent accomplishment. And she continues to lead by example: in November 2024, she earned her master’s degree while raising two children and making time for the simple joys, like getting lost in a good book. “I love to read in my free time, I love to learn,” she said.
Now, as she transitions into her new role, Sgt. Lucas is undergoing in-house training and working alongside veteran sergeants to sharpen her skills even further.
Her story is proof that representation matters, mentorship changes lives, and greatness leaves a legacy. Because of Sgt. Shuntia Lucas, another young Black girl will believe that leadership, in every form, is within reach.
Cover photo: Sgt. Shuntia Lucas Makes History as First Black Woman Promoted to Sergeant in Dane County, Wisconsin Sheriff’s Office/Photo credit: WMTV News/Dane County Sherrif’s Office