By Carla Thomas
On Tuesday, August 12, Sharon Kidd was presented the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) national 2025 Outstanding Associate Member of the Year Award in Hollywood, Florida.
NOBLE, consists of community leaders united to promote justice, equity, and excellence in the administration of justice.
Kidd was recognized for her commitment and work in NOBLE and the community affiliations. Kidd was chosen for her fortitude and dedication to NOBLE’s mission statement and the legacy of Detective Rafaela A. Valdez.
Kidd is a commissioner of the Personnel Board for the City of Berkeley and vice chairperson of the BART Citizen Review Board. Kidd is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and has also served for more than five years as vice chair of Berkeley’s Police Review Commission and on the Board of the West Contra Costa chapter of Girl’s Inc. in Richmond for seven years.
Kidd thanked her family members for their continued support, her Oakland Police Department (OPD) mentor-brother, retired Lieutenant James Meeks and retired Detective Mike Gantt.
“They were very inspirational, and my reason for continuing to work in law enforcement,” said Kidd, the chief development officer of Ripple Effect 22 in San Francisco where she supports funding efforts and compliance standards.
Kidd also thanked her Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) family, Lifelong Medical Care family, and childhood friends who often give her encouraging words. “My supporters have always encouraged me to never give up fighting for our communities,” said Kidd. “With so much support, I spend a lot of time fighting for the rights of seniors, youth, and anyone who needs help.”
Kidd has received numerous local and national awards recognizing her work in support of underserved populations, justice system reform, and community development. Whether working with law enforcement, parolees, young adults, or seniors, Kidd always brings the same level of commitment, compassion, and excellence. “This is one of my biggest national awards and I couldn’t be more excited.”