Vivian Nguyen

Police Officer | First Generation American

Vivian Nguyen’s story begins right here in Colorado Springs.

Born and raised in the city she now serves, Vivian grew up as a first-generation American and pursued a degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Originally interested in federal service, she found inspiration much closer to home.

Many of her professors were Colorado Springs police officers who shared their experiences and passion for serving the community.

Their example ultimately encouraged her to apply to the Colorado Springs Police Department.

Now two years into her law enforcement career, Vivian continues to find purpose in the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives.

“Each day, I was looking forward to coming to work and was excited to see something different.”

One experience early in her career left a lasting impression.

Vivian responded to a domestic violence call involving a woman who had experienced years of abuse and trauma.

For seven hours, Vivian sat with her, listened to her story, documented every detail, and reassured her that her experiences mattered.

The woman later shared that previous interactions had left her with a negative view of law enforcement.

A detective eventually told Vivian something she would never forget:

She was the first officer who had truly helped.

That moment reinforced one of the most important lessons she has learned in the profession.”Everyone has a story, and no one can be judged fully by appearance or a single interaction.”

For Vivian, service means meeting people during some of the hardest moments of their lives and doing everything possible to help.

“I am meeting my community usually on their worst day.”

The work is not always easy.

Like many first responders, Vivian acknowledges the challenge of maintaining a positive outlook while regularly witnessing difficult situations.

“Your perspective of the community and society can get very jaded.”

Yet she continues to find hope in the moments that reveal the best of humanity.

“Although you see the bad, there are moments you see humanity in people.”

Looking back, Vivian is most proud of the personal growth that came from stepping outside her comfort zone.

Before entering law enforcement, she describes herself as quiet and hesitant to speak up.

Today, she carries confidence, leadership, and a willingness to advocate for others.

“I have learned to be more confident in myself and to voice my opinion.”

For younger generations, her message is simple:

“Service, sacrifice, and purpose are not about recognition, but rather responsibility.”

And perhaps the lesson that guides her most:

“Having an understanding of someone else’s perspective can lead to more openings and opportunities.”