Women in Blue
Sergeant Lidya Ayar of West Bloomfield is nominated for Officer of the Year
The Detroit Public Safety Foundation (DPSF) will host its 12th annual Women in Blue celebration on Thursday, May 22, at MGM Grand Detroit, spotlighting the outstanding contributions of female first responders in the Detroit Police and Fire Departments.
Among the distinguished nominees is Sergeant Lidya Ayar, a West Bloomfield resident and a 7-year veteran of the Detroit Police Department, currently leading the burglary team at the Twelfth Precinct Detective Unit. Known for her leadership, dedication, and mentorship, Sgt. Ayar has played a pivotal role in the promotion of three officers under her command and has received multiple accolades throughout her career, including the Medal of Valor in 2019 and being named Officer of the Year by the Detroit Police Officers Association – District Five in 2020.
A graduate of Wayne State University with a B.S. in Criminal Justice, Sgt. Ayar has served in patrol, Special Operations, and detective roles, continually advancing her skills and supporting her peers.
The Women in Blue event will recognize 19 finalists—16 from DPD and 3 from DFD—nominated by their peers for their professionalism, integrity, and commitment to public service. The Officer of the Year and Firefighter of the Year will be announced during the program, which begins at 8:30 a.m., with doors opening at 7:30 a.m. DPD Chief James E. White and DFD Commissioner Charles Simms will present the awards, alongside DPSF Executive Director Patti Kukula.
“We are proud to be celebrating the 12th annual Women in Blue event, honoring the amazing contributions of Detroit’s female first responders,” said Kukula. “These women serve with strength and compassion, making a powerful impact on their departments and the communities they serve.”
The Women in Blue event also serves as a fundraiser supporting the DPSF’s mission to provide resources for DPD and DFD not covered by the city budget, including community engagement and mentorship programs.