During Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor leaders who inspire, guide, and leave a lasting mark on their communities. One of those leaders is Chief Alex Chavira of the Sterling Police Department, who has served with pride and dedication for nearly three decades.
Born and raised in Sterling, Chavira has dedicated his life to the safety and well-being of his hometown. With 29 years on the force, he retired on the very same date he was sworn in. For the past five years, he has served as the first Latino Chief of Police in Sterling’s history, a milestone he never sought but one that has created a lasting legacy for both the Hispanic community and the city at large.
Chavira recalls that he never aspired to become chief; his only goal was to be the best officer he could be. It was his father who pushed him to keep striving, advice that helped guide his journey to leadership.
To young people, his advice is simple yet powerful:
“Learn as much as you can and never stop. Be firm, fair, and consistent. Above all, treat people with dignity and respect.”
Chief Chavira also speaks with pride about the qualities that make Sterling a great place to live. From excellent schools and welcoming parks to strong medical facilities and a vibrant riverfront, he believes Sterling offers happiness and opportunity to anyone who calls it home.
Being bilingual, he explains, is one of the best tools for serving effectively: “Speaking two languages opens doors and allows us to truly connect with people.” For him, policing is about more than enforcing laws—it is about building trust, strengthening community engagement, and serving with dignity as true public servants.
His leadership as the first Latino Chief of Police in Sterling is a source of pride this Hispanic Heritage Month and stands as an inspiration for generations to come.