As part of the celebration of June's Pride Month, the Chargers organization is highlighting the impact of game changers across the Southern California community. Kristin Hayman is up next.
What is your name and what is your title/organization you work for?
My name is Kristin Hayman and I am a Lieutenant with the Orange County Sheriff's Department.
How has your identity shaped the person you are today?
I grew up in a conservative, strict household where hard work, discipline, and family were the pillars of daily life. From a young age, I was taught that excellence wasn't a goal it was a requirement. That upbringing shaped me into someone who holds themselves to a high standard and strives to be the best in whatever I do. I'm naturally competitive, buy my drive comes from a place of wanting to grow, to lead by example, and to lift others up with me.
At the age of 19 I came out to my parents and told them I was currently involved in a lesbian relationship – a moment that tested my strength and challenged the norms I was raised with. That decision taught me what it means to stand your truth, even when it's hard. It deepened my resilience and gave me a clearer understanding of what authenticity and courage really look like.
For the past 18 years, I've served in law enforcement – a career that has allowed me to live out my values of service, leadership, and integrity. I've always believed that the best leaders are those who care deeply about the people they serve and the team they lead. I take pride in mentoring others, celebrating their successes, and working collaboratively toward shared goals. Success, to me, means achieving not just personal excellence, but creating an environment where others can thrive as well. I've been blessed to work for a department that supports, employs and fosters this type of positive environment.
My identity shaped my upbringing, my journey of self-acceptance, and nearly two decades in public service continue to guide me.
What inspired you to work in your field?
What inspired me to pursue a career in law enforcement wasn't just a desire to wear a badge, it was a calling to serve, protect, and lead with purpose. I grew up in a household where hard work, accountability, and putting others first were core values. That environment gave me a strong foundation, one that shaped my drive to always perform at my best, to lead by example and stay grounded with integrity.
Law enforcement aligned perfectly with that mindset. It's a field where discipline and dedication matter, but more importantly, where your actions can truly change lives. I was inspired by the opportunity to be that steady presence in the community, someone people could trust, someone who steps up when things get difficult, and someone who leads not just with authority, but with empathy and purpose.
What does Pride Month mean to you?
Pride Month is a reminder of the power of authenticity and the importance of visibility. Pride is about resilience, community, and leading with empathy. It's about creating spaces in life and work where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to be exactly who they are.
What message would you tell the next generation of LGBTQ+ community to help guide their efforts?
Never underestimate the power of your voice, your presence, and your truth. You don't have to fit anyone else's definition of who you should be. Your identity is not a limitation, it's your strength. Be proud of who you are, even when it feels like the world isn't ready. Keep showing up, build others up, lead with courage and compassion. Progress is made not just by the loudest voices but by the most consistent and authentic ones.
Tell us about a moment in history that shaped your career or life?
One of the most transformative moments in my life was marrying my wife. That moment wasn't just about love, it was about validation, freedom, and finally being able to live fully and openly as myself. Being able to stand beside the person I love and call her my wife was incredibly powerful.
Our marriage has grounded me, strengthened my sense of self, and reminded me that true leadership comes from living your truth and creating space for other to do the same. It's a constant reminder of how far we've come and why the fight for equality, respect, and inclusion still matters every day.
