For Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City alumna Elexa Sanders, a career in law enforcement started with a desire to build something more for herself, her family and her future.

Sanders enrolled in the college’s police science program, often known as the COP program, with a clear goal in mind: earn a degree while also gaining the certification needed to step directly into the field.

“What really intrigued me about the program was the opportunity not only to earn a degree, but also to earn my certification,” Sanders said. “I knew I wanted to be in law enforcement, but I also wanted to further my education.”

Her path to OSU-OKC was shaped by life circumstances. After graduating from high school, Sanders briefly attended Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma, but being away from home proved difficult. As a young mother with strong family ties, she began searching for an option closer to home.

That search led her to OSU-OKC.

“I thought, what better way for me to still be home, be close to my family, be a mom and pursue my career and education,” she said.

While in the program, Sanders balanced full-time work and coursework, spending nearly three years as a correctional officer at the Cleveland County Jail. The experience, encouraged by her instructors, gave her a critical foothold in the field.

“One of my instructors told me, ‘Get your foot in the door, start at a jail somewhere,’” Sanders said. “That’s really what led me to do so.”

Even with the demands of work, school and parenting, Sanders said her time on campus became a source of motivation.

“I always looked forward to coming to campus,” she said. “My instructors were welcoming and supportive, and they pushed us not only in the classroom, but outside of it.”

That preparation paid off. After completing the program and earning her Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training certification, Sanders advanced from the jail to a commissioned deputy role. She later moved into patrol, investigations and undercover assignments.

Today, she serves as a police officer with the Moore Police Department, where she is also involved in community outreach and service initiatives.

“It really opened the door for me and my career,” she said.

Sanders credits the program not only for launching her career, but also for setting her on a long-term academic path. After earning her associate degree, she continued her education by earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and ethics. She later earned a master’s degree in leadership and is now considering pursuing a doctorate, potentially in forensics.

“I want to continue to grow,” Sanders said. “I enjoy the leadership aspect and want to move further in my career, maybe one day becoming a supervisor.”

Throughout her journey, Sanders said several instructors left a lasting impression, including Dr. Larry Robinson, who emphasized discipline and attention to detail, and Tiffany Smith, whose lessons in crime scene investigation and casework continue to influence Sanders’ approach in the field.

“They prepared us for the realities of the job,” Sanders said. “Mentally, physically and emotionally.”

Reflecting on her experience, Sanders said the program challenged her in ways that ultimately shaped her success.

That determination aligns with a principle she still carries from her time at OSU-OKC — “we finish what we start,” a core tenet of the Cowboy Code that emphasizes resilience, accountability and follow-through. For Sanders, that mindset became essential during long days balancing full-time work, school and motherhood.

“There were so many days that I thought this was so challenging,” she said. “I was a mom, working full time and going to school. I thought about stopping, maybe coming back later. But I didn’t quit.”

Leaning on support from instructors and classmates, Sanders pushed through, finishing what she started and building a foundation that continues to guide her career today.

“If I hadn’t come to this campus and been part of the program, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Sanders said.