Neal named Officer of the Year

McMinnville Police Sgt. Katelyn Neal thought she was spending the evening judging chili. Instead, she left with an unexpected honor: the McMinnville Evening Exchange Club’s 2026 Officer of the Year Award.

“No, I was shocked,” Neal said, when asked whether she had anticipated the recognition.

Neal said Chief Nichole Mosley had asked her to keep her schedule clear for the evening, explaining they would be judging chili. Neal agreed, despite one small complication.

“I don’t even like chili,” she said.

After judging, the evening took a turn she never saw coming.

“All of a sudden, I’m hit with this award,” Neal said.

For Neal, who has spent 11 years in law enforcement, the recognition was especially meaningful because she prefers serving quietly.

“I’m not the person that likes recognition,” she stated. “I like to stay behind the scenes.”

She described herself as being truly honored to receive the award.

Reflecting on her career, Neal said she has seen progress for women in law enforcement. She recalled working alongside only a few other women when she began, seeing those numbers decline for a time and then grow again.

“I think that women have definitely come a long way in law enforcement, and definitely from where I started,” she said.

Law enforcement was not a career Neal had always envisioned for herself. Now, with more than a decade of experience and being bestowed the distinguished Officer of the Year, she hopes other young women will pursue their ambitions.

Her advice is straightforward: go after your dreams and commit fully to the work.

“If anybody wants to do this, I say go for it and give it 100 percent,” said Neal. “And just shoot your shot.”

Pictured is Neal with McMinnville Evening Exchange Club President Whitney Yates.