The evening featured a dynamic conversation moderated by Preeti Emrick, Director of the Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management, with panelists Katie Roberts, Assistant Chief of Police for Anne Arundel County Police Department, and Trisha L. Wolford, Fire Chief of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department.
Together, these trailblazing leaders shared personal stories of transformation in leadership, from taking bold career risks to navigating challenges in traditionally male-dominated fields. They spoke candidly about resilience, the importance of mentorship, building trust within organizations and communities, and the responsibility leaders have to lift others as they rise.
Throughout the discussion, the speakers emphasized that leadership is grounded in authenticity, courage, and service. Each described pivotal moments in their careers that required stepping into uncertainty, advocating for change, and building cultures that prioritize collaboration, trust, and opportunity for the next generation of women leaders.
Special thanks to the leadership of St. John's College for hosting the event, as well as to the generous sponsors, partners, and volunteers who supported the program. Their commitment helps Anne Arundel Women Giving Together continue its mission of collective philanthropy — improving the lives of women and families in the community through strategic grantmaking and leadership development.
Thank you to our Women in Leadership event supporters: St. John's College, Homestead Gardens, The Vineyards at Dodon, and Blue Current Ventures. Photos by Aston Photography.
Meet the moderator and panelists
Preeti Emrick, JD
Director, Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management
Preeti Emrick brings over 15 years of experience in emergency management and public safety coordination. Before her role with the county, she served as corporate emergency manager for University of Maryland Capital Region Health, and as a senior law and policy analyst at the University of Maryland Center for Health and Homeland Security. She holds a juris doctor degree from the American University Washington College of Law. Her leadership and expertise helped guide a thoughtful and engaging conversation during our Women in Leadership event.
Assistant Chief Katie Roberts
Assistant Chief of Police, Anne Arundel County Police Department
Katie Roberts is the Assistant Chief of Police for Anne Arundel County. With over 30 years of law enforcement experience across a variety of roles, she brings a deep commitment to community engagement and proactive crime prevention strategies. She is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion within the police force and is dedicated to fostering transparency and accountability in policing. She holds a degree in Criminal Justice along with advanced leadership training, and she remains actively involved in local initiatives aimed at strengthening public safety and building trust within the community.
Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford
Chief, Anne Arundel County Fire Department
Chief Trisha L. Wolford leads one of the largest combination fire departments in the United States. Beginning her career in 2006 as an entry-level firefighter, Chief Wolford has served in the Fire Marshal’s Office, the Fire and Explosives Investigation Unit, and as a Tactical Medic in the SWAT program. She has also held leadership roles with fire departments in Bozeman, Montana and Spokane, Washington. Chief Wolford holds an MBA and master’s degree in management and organization from Western Governors University, and a bachelor’s degree from Shepherd University. She is a certified paramedic with advanced training from the National Fire Academy and serves in leadership capacities with the International Fire Chiefs Association, the FirstNet Authority, and the Maryland State EMS Advisory Council.
Stay connected and get involved
We hope this conversation inspired you. If you would like to continue engaging with incredible women who are making a difference in Anne Arundel County, we invite you to join Anne Arundel Women Giving Together.
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