As Connecticut’s UConn Huskies played Milwaukee’s Marquette Golden Eagles on Saturday evening in the Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden, NYPD First Deputy Commissioner Tania Kinsella waited in the wings, looking over the iconic New York venue that has hosted countless historic moments over the decades.
Kinsella herself has created her own historic moment, becoming the first woman of color to hold the title of First Deputy Commissioner. Recognizing the impact and inspiration a female leader in a city agency traditionally dominated by men can have on young women, Kinsella told amNewYork Metro that she does not take the significant mantle lightly and is ever thankful of those who came before.
“I’m grateful for [former] Commissioner [Keechant] Sewell because she’s opened up those doors for women like me, and now I’m gonna open further doors and continue the trend to make sure that we’re not the last women to hold these ranks,” Kinsella said.
Kinsella met with Big East Conference Commissioner Val Ackerman as the roaring crowd cheered UConn, which was on its way to a championship. At the end of the first half, the female NYPD leader was whisked onto the court where she was recognized by the Garden crowd as a trailblazer during Women’s History Month.
“There was so much high energy, it was surreal,” Kinsella said after leaving the court. “It was a dream come true. We all wish to be honored in front of my city.”
Kinsella has dedicated more than 20 years to the NYPD and safety of New Yorkers. Beginning her career as a cop in 2003, patrolling the streets of Staten Island out of the 120th Precinct, she swiftly rode through the ranks being promoted to sergeant and moving to Brooklyn’s 68th Precinct. In 2013 she changed boroughs again, this time heading to Manhattan’s 13th Precinct as a lieutenant.
She would continue to break barriers on the way to being named first deputy commissioner in July 2023. Kinsella told amNewYork Metro that she wants young women to know with hard work it is possible to be a female leader and have a family.
“It’s amazing when we’re being a part of the change in New York City and the change is positive. I’m a mother, I’m a woman and it can be done you can have a glowing career and have a family and take care of your city,” Kinsella said.
