There’s a new sheriff in the inner ring of the National Sheriffs’ Association, and it’s a face they’ve never seen there in all the 75 years of their history.

Chester County Sheriff Carolyn Bunny Welsh recently stepped foot in the organization’s executive board as the newly elected Sergeant-at-Arms — the first woman to ever serve in a board leadership role.

“Sheriff Welsh brings experience, good judgment and great talent to the NSA board,” President Danny Glick said. “We are pleased to work with her on issues affecting sheriffs throughout the nation. She has shown an enthusiasm and a willingness to work with all levels of government for the betterment of the citizens of Chester County, Pennsylvania and other counties throughout the country.”

Welsh ascended to the position after being elected in Chester County in 1999, serving on NSA ethics and legislative committees, joining the board of directors, leading the Pennsylvania Sheriffs’ Association as president and being inducted into the Hall of Fame of the International Police Association.

“I am honored to become part of the NSA executive committee as Sergeant-at-Arms. This is a prestigious board with many talented sheriffs from all over the United States,” Welsh said. “They are an outstanding group of dedicated public servants who work for their constituents in each and every county all over the nation. I am proud to be working with them and have the opportunity to be part of an exceptional group of sheriffs with great abilities and resources.”