Sergeant Alexis Frierson of the University of Michigan-Flint Police Department has always been a leader. She was a captain while playing three sports in high school, and as a basketball player at Mott Community College.
And now in law enforcement, Frierson utilizes those same leadership skills to make those around her better.
“Motivating those around me (and) empowering them to be the best version of themselves, that’s dear to the heart for me,” Frierson said. “Not one person can do it alone, you have to build a team around you. Supporting and motivating people has always been a passion of mine. I like to consider myself as a caretaker for the most part. It reflects in taking care of those around me.”
Frierson, a seven year officer with the University of Michigan-Flint, has recently become a sergeant. The move to sergeant is a testament to her leadership, expertise and commitment to making a positive impact, a social media post about her promotion said.
During her career, Frierson has served as a patrol officer, field training officer, and a detective.
“Alexis is more than just a dedicated police detective—she’s a true pillar of our community,” University of Michigan-Flint Police Chief Ray Hall said. “Her relentless work ethic, sharp investigative skills and deep commitment to those she serves makes a meaningful impact every day, both on campus and throughout Flint.”
Frierson said her favorite part of her law enforcement career has been conducting investigations, because it allows an officer to bring closure to a case.
“I’ve always wanted to be able to help in an area where, especially being able to investigate crimes at the highest level, and bring justice to families,” Frierson said. “So (it’s) doing the job to the best of your ability and making sure you find justice or bring closure to families who have experienced a traumatic incident. It is our job to ensure safety as well as closure.”
“She is genuinely a kind and decent person,” Hall said as he described the way she deals with the cases, who she works with, and who she serves.
The University of Michigan-Flint public safety department patrols not only the campus, but downtown Flint to help curb crime. The philosophy allows the department to have a strong connection with the community they serve. It also allows the City of Flint to handle higher priority calls.
“Beyond solving cases, Alexis is passionate about fostering trust and building strong relationships,” Hall said. “She exemplifies what it truly means to protect and serve and her positive spirit is nothing short of contagious.”
Frierson said she doesn’t know what’s next in her career, but she’s up for the challenge and it will be hands-on.
“I believe that I will continue to grow as a leader (and) I will continue to train and become the best leader that I can become. I want to be a part of the change and the driver of the change in regards to still advocating for the residents of the community or the officers in the department.”