PULLMAN, WA – Linda Pillo, a 1978 Washington State University graduate and the first female Chief of Police in Bellevue, has been honored with the WSU Alumni Achievement Award.

Pillo retired in 2014 after a 35-year career in law enforcement, beginning as the only female patrol officer in the Mercer Island Police Department before rising through the ranks in Bellevue.

She was recognized for her community leadership and groundbreaking role in public safety, helping launch programs such as DARE, Bicycle Patrol, and the Bellevue Police Foundation. Since retiring, she has continued to serve as a consultant supporting executive recruitment for government agencies.