When Marianne Ryan joined the RCMP 32 years ago, she had a goal of perhaps one day becoming an inspector.

But now she has far surpassed that goal by assuming command of the RCMP in Alberta, based out of K-Division in Edmonton.

"I'm feeling a little emotional, but just beaming with pride. It's a tremendous honour," said Ryan, following the change of command ceremony at the Brigadier J.C. Jefferson Armoury, ﻿11630 109 St., Wednesday morning.

"This is just the icing on the cake for me."

Ryan is the first woman to become the province's top Mountie, overseeing the 112 RCMP detachments in Alberta and more than 4,000 RCMP employees.

Growing up on a farm near London, Ont., Ryan has served as the officer-in-charge of criminal operations in Alberta since January 2011. Prior to her arrival in Alberta, she wore many hats on the west coast, including inspector, officer-in-charge of the Vancouver integrated proceeds of crime section and human resources officer for the Pacific region.

Bob Paulson, commissioner of the RCMP, talked about the "hairy events" that took place at a rural property near Tofield a few weeks ago, when a Mountie was run over by a pickup truck during a standoff with an armed man.

Ryan called Paulson and gave him a briefing about what happened, also stating she had to get to the hospital to greet the injured officer -- an example, he said, of her leadership.

"There was absolutely no question in anybody's mind who was going to be the next commanding officer in Alberta," he said during his speech at the ceremony, accompanied with bag pipes, Red Serge troop marches and remarks from several dignitaries.

During her speech, Ryan got emotional when she talked about her life partner Lori, thanking her for her sense of humour and support during the most challenging times.

She told reporters after the ceremony that the RCMP has always treated her with a great deal of respect, regardless of her sexuality.

"I'm very proud of who I am and who my partner is -- I think it's important to be who you are and the RCMP is a very diverse and welcoming organization," Ryan said, adding her new position will encourage more women to sign up with the RCMP.

"If i can make it anyone can.... there are many many women in the RCMP now. When I joined, not so many, but behind me and with me there are a lot of women and there will be a lot more coming in."

Ryan was appointed to commanding officer on Nov. 8, 2013. She assumes the role from Deputy Commissioner Dale McGowan, who returned to Edmonton -- his home province and city -- in February 2011 for the position.

When asked what her priorities will be in her new role, Ryan said it will be making sure police work closely with aboriginal communities, integration with other police forces and law enforcement, and improving communication with media and employees.

pamela.roth@sunmedia.ca

@SUNpamelaroth