2023 Blue KC Answering the Call Honoree Michelle Sumstad
The July recipient is Michelle Sumstad…..who has served in law enforcement for the past 28 years with the Independence police department.
During her nearly-three-decade tenure, Michelle has been a leader within the department in a variety of roles. Most recently – in fact on Valentine’s Day of this year – she was promoted to deputy chief, becoming the first female commander in the history of the Independence police department.
Michelle grew up in Minnesota and played softball at Saint Cloud State University in her home state. She attributes her athletics background as the foundation of her management philosophy and the teamwork that is essential in law enforcement.
In addition to her daily service protecting citizens in her police work, Michelle is placing her footprint in our community through leadership. She serves on three different boards – the Deron Cherry foundation, the community services league, and the Independence police foundation. She is helping each of these organizations to provide services and opportunities for Kansas Citians in need.
While Michelle’s career is based on helping others, she is also a testament to allowing others to help her. Michelle says that a big moment in her life came when a sergeant pulled her aside and had noticed a change in her cheerful demeanor. He urged her to seek counsel. She did, and gives high praise to the Battle Within, an organization that helps veterans and first responders cope in a healthy way with the trauma they face.
Michelle said that experience of opening herself up for help has changed her life both personally and professionally. It has ignited her passion to help fellow officers manage the extreme emotional rollercoaster that comes with responding to crises after crises. She now is a mentor and trainer for the Battle Within. She is an advocate for all of us to be vulnerable and reach out when struggling with an issue.
For her service to the Kansas City community, Michelle will be honored with the Blue KC Answering the Call award at the Royals game on July 28 at the “K”. A big thanks to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City for presenting this award and congratulations to this month’s honoree, Michelle Sumstad!
Blue KC supports the Kansas City community through impactful sports partnership programs
Blue KC Answering the Call Program
