Commander Donna Reno
Commander Donna Reno’s commitment to public service began at an early age with a dream to become a homicide detective and help those most in need.
While pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Arizona State University, she was selected for a prestigious FBI internship. That summer, she trained at Quantico, Virginia, where she worked with the Behavioral Analysis Unit and the Crimes Against Children Unit—an experience that deepened her passion for protecting others.
Inspired by that work, Commander Reno returned to Arizona, determined to serve her community. A ride along with the Chandler Police Department confirmed her path, and in 2007, she joined the agency, drawn in by the warm and welcoming culture.
Her goal of becoming a detective remained clear.
After seven years on patrol, Commander Reno achieved that goal, transferring to the Special Victims Unit. There, she investigated family-related and sex crimes, a role she considers the most rewarding of her career. Her work helped remove children from dangerous environments and hold offenders accountable, bringing justice and healing to vulnerable victims.
Commander Reno was promoted to Sergeant in 2018, then Lieutenant in 2021.
During those years Commander Reno served in a variety of leadership roles, including overseeing School Resource Officers, Professional Standards, Hiring, Patrol, and the Training Unit.
She was promoted to Commander in February 2025.
Commander Reno is especially passionate about shaping positive internal culture and creating an environment where employees feel supported and motivated to come to work.
A certified mindfulness peer coach, she has been a driving force behind the department’s officer wellness initiatives. She introduced the Struggle Well program, empowering officers to build personal resilience in the face of job-related and personal challenges.
In recognition of her service, Commander Reno has received two Meritorious Service Awards and was named one of Chandler’s Most Inspirational Women by Chandler Lifestyle magazine in 2024.
Commander Reno holds a Master’s degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Grand Canyon University and continues to serve her community both inside and outside the agency. She is the department’s liaison to the Muslim Police Advisory Board and remains dedicated to building strong, inclusive community partnerships.