Born and raised in Oceanside, Valencia graduated from Oceanside High School before embarking on a remarkable journey in law enforcement. After starting her career in 1990 as a public services officer, she quickly climbed the ranks, becoming a lieutenant with the Oceanside Police Department. Her experience spans diverse roles including patrol officer, detective, and the esteemed position of SWAT Commander, where she led successful missions to enhance community safety.

In 2021, Valencia returned from retirement to take on the role of interim chief of the MiraCosta College Police Department and quickly made history as the first female police chief of a law enforcement agency in the North San Diego area. Her tenure has been marked by her commitment to educational initiatives; she established a Student Academy designed to prepare high school students for careers in law enforcement. Through this program, Valencia fosters a positive relationship between law enforcement and youth, paving the way for the next generation of leaders.

Valencia’s passion for education doesn’t stop there. A proud alumna of MiraCosta College, she also teaches within the Administration of Justice program, mentoring young students like many who may be reading this article today. She understands the challenging journey that lies ahead and is eager to guide aspiring law enforcement professionals in achieving their dreams.

Beyond her career in law enforcement, Valencia is an active community member, serving as the Legal Redress Chairperson for the North San Diego Chapter of the NAACP, volunteering for the North County Special Olympics, and supporting initiatives that uplift local youth. Her accolades include several awards recognizing her exemplary service, most notably the City of Oceanside Partnership Award and multiple “Team of the Quarter” recognitions from the Oceanside Police Department.

Valencia’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the profound impact one can have on a community. Driven by a commitment to public service, she continuously inspires young minds by sharing her story, urging them to explore opportunities in law enforcement and beyond. Her belief in education as a cornerstone of success has been a guiding principle throughout her career, and her children, who also graduated from MiraCosta College, reflect that same dedication to learning and growth.

As high schoolers and middle schoolers, you stand at the cusp of your futures, much like Valencia once did. With role models like her leading the way, it’s clear that hard work, education, and a heart for service can shape not just your life, but also the lives of countless others in our community. Valencia Warner-Saadat is more than a police chief; she is an emblem of hope, leadership, and unwavering commitment to both the safety of our neighborhoods and the empowerment of our youth.