A Pittsburgh native, Chief Townsend brings extensive experience in law enforcement, public safety, and security leadership. She began her career with the Pittsburgh Police Department at age 18 and graduated from the police academy as a patrol officer at 19. She later served as a narcotics detective, a Supervisory Transportation Security Specialist with the Transportation Security Administration, Chief of Police at Chatham University, and Director of Airport Security for the Allegheny County Airport Authority. In that role, she oversaw security and cybersecurity at Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport.

Education

University of Pittsburgh 1990 (71 credits)- Oakland Main Campus

Awards

Mayor’s Award of Employee Excellence for outstanding service, and recognition of dedication to public service above and beyond the call of duty