Amy Marion was recently appointed as Nashville, Ark., police chief effective Jan. 1.
"I believe all people should strive to be good role models. I want to continue to keep working and trying to be a positive light. It is important to me that the citizens of Nashville can trust their local police department," she said.
The town's current police chief, Dale Pierce, retires effective Jan. 1 and Marion assumes her new role the same day.
Marion now serves as the town's assistant police chief.
Nashville Mayor Billy Ray Jones broke a 6-6 tie Monday to approve Marion.
The town is the county seat of Howard County, Ark.
Marion has 23 years' experience in law enforcement and has also worked as a criminal investigator, patrol officer and jail administrator.
"I am excited for the opportunity to serve in the position as the chief of police of Nashville. I am proud to be a part of this department and proud of the officers that work here," Marion said.
"Our commitment to serve and protect the citizens of Nashville is top priority."
The announcement of her promotion was "bittersweet," she said.
"I was very pleased to be selected as the next police chief. The announcement was bittersweet because I was competing for the position with other officers that I have worked with for 20 years. I don't want the results to affect those relationships," she said.
Marion believes God "has led me down this road."
"I cannot say that I always wanted to be a police officer while growing up. I believe that God has led me down this road and has prepared me for each step of my career," Marion said.
"The majority of my encounters have been pleasant ones. I think every person in law enforcement has had a few bad encounters. Just the same, I feel that a few citizens have had bad encounters with law enforcement.
"You cannot judge all people on the actions of one. I have made many lasting friendships throughout my career. Some of which I would not have made had it not been for my job. For that I am thankful," she said.