Policewomen: The First Century and Beyond” will be presented by Plainsboro Township Police Chief Elizabeth Bondurant at Mercer College on Thursday, March 27, at noon. One of six women serving as police chiefs in New Jersey, Bondurant, pictured at right, will describe her real life experiences. Peter Horne, coordinator of the college’s criminal justice program, presents an historical overview. The free talk in the communications building is open to the public.##M:[more]##
Bondurant earned a bachelor’s degree in health and physical education from East Stroudsburg State College, and a master’s degree in criminal justice management from Jersey City State College. A graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, she is designated as a New Jersey Supervisory Certified Public Manager in the Law Enforcement Program.
A member of the Plainsboro Police Department since 1983, Bondurant worked her way up through the ranks, serving in the patrol division and detective bureau. She was appointed sergeant in 1987, lieutenant in 1994, police captain in 2004, and chief of police in 2007.
Bondurant has taught a variety of courses as an adjunct professor for the MCCC criminal justice program, with coursework focus on law enforcement and corrections. Graduates from the program earn an associate in science degree and are prepared for careers in criminal justice and for transfer to four-year institutions.
The talk, in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of women serving as fully sworn officers in the United States, is presented by Horne, author of “Women in Law Enforcement.” According to Horne, policewomen currently constitute approximately 14 percent of the nation’s police personnel. In New Jersey, six women serve as chiefs out of approximately 450 police departments, while three counties out of 21 have women at the helm of their sheriffs’ offices.
“Despite progress, there are still obstacles women strive to overcome. Stereotypical images, the brass ceiling, and sexual harassment are among the issues that unfortunately persist,” said Horne. “Women have brought about many positive changes in policing. Chief Bondurant is helping to pave the way for women in law enforcement.”
Distinguished Lecture Series, Mercer College, West Windsor, Communications 109, 609-570-3324. www.mccc.edu. Free. Thursday, March 27, Noon.
