Karsten named first female superintendent of Missouri State Highway Patrol

The Missouri State Highway Patrol swore in its first woman as superintendent Tuesday.

Col. Sandra K. Karsten was named the 23rd superintendent in the patrol’s 85-year history during a ceremony at its Jefferson City headquarters. Judge Carol England swore in Karsten and Gov. Eric Greitens gave special remarks.

The governor announced Karsten as his pick for the job on Feb. 1.

“I am honored and humbled to take the oath of office as the 23rd superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol,” said Karsten.

According to the patrol, Karsten joined the patrol on Sept. 1, 1985, as a member of the 57th Recruit Class. She has held multiple roles, ranks and been promoted several times during her 31 years with the patrol.

She was promoted to lieutenant colonel in 2012 and served as a member of the patrol’s command staff. As assistant superintendent, Karsten also acted in the superintendent’s absence and oversaw the Professional Standards Division and Public Information and Education Division.

The Missouri Senate confirmed her appointment Thursday, elevating her rank to colonel.