Want to learn more about the leaders of PORAC? In this series of profiles, we turn the spotlight on the dedicated directors who help to govern and represent the organization in the service of our members.
An Advocate for Meaningful Change
Daniel Dickson of the Santa Clara County Correctional Peace Officers Association was among the new directors-at-large sworn in at PORAC’s Board of Directors meeting in August. Since taking on the role, he has been driven by his commitment to public safety, drawing on nearly a decade of experience to bring unique perspectives and solutions to the critical issues affecting law enforcement.
When Dickson entered the profession as a deputy with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office nine years ago, he also became a member of both the Santa Clara CPOA and PORAC — affiliations he says went hand in hand with his career. “These organizations have been instrumental in connecting me with a broader community of law enforcement professionals, all working toward common goals,” he shares.
As he progressed in his career, Dickson’s involvement in his association also deepened. After serving five years on the Santa Clara CPOA board, he became treasurer, a position he continues to hold, while also serving as secretary for PORAC’s Central Coast Chapter. Collectively, these experiences at the local level paved the way for a significant milestone in his career: his appointment as a PORAC director-at-large.
In this position, Dickson represents the interests of his fellow members at the state level, amplifying their voices on critical issues facing peace officers today — such as recruitment, retention and laws that embolden criminals while hamstringing law enforcement — and building the connections necessary at the State Capitol to drive policy changes in those areas. “My goal in this role is clear: to understand the challenges our profession faces and advocate for solutions that protect both our members and the communities we serve,” he declares. “The law enforcement landscape is complex, with turnover and burnout posing significant hurdles for officers. Beyond the operational challenges, the political landscape adds another layer of complexity. Bridging divides between political parties to find real, actionable solutions is a priority — one that requires collaboration, open dialogue and a commitment to progress.”
Dickson’s focus on fostering unity across the political aisle aligns with PORAC’s nonpartisan approach to representing its members, which involves working alongside leaders who prioritize public safety regardless of party affiliation. “My mission is not about pitting one side against another, whether it’s north versus south or any other divide. It’s about an all-hands-on-deck approach to drive meaningful change,” he says. “I plan to stay on the Board for as long as it takes to see these improvements take root, ensuring that the voices of my fellow officers are heard and their challenges addressed.”
As Dickson continues on his career and leadership journey, he remains dedicated to building strong connections and creating a more resilient law enforcement community. “The road ahead may be challenging, but with collective effort, real change is within reach,” he says.