The head of the Massachusetts State Police announced her retirement Wednesday morning, planning to depart the agency she has led for about two years at the end of next week. Col. Kerry Gilpin, superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, has helmed the agency through a period of turmoil as an overtime fraud scandal and other issues hounded the ranks of the State Police. In a letter announcing her retirement effective Nov. 15,

Gilpin said leading the department "has been the greatest honor of my professional life."

Gilpin, 49, of Hampden, joined the State Police in 1994, and served as deputy division commander of the Division of Standards and Training before Gov. Charlie Baker tapped her in November 2017 to lead the department as superintendent.

"The last two years have presented tremendous challenges for the Department. However, I believe that with great adversity comes great opportunity. We have accomplished so much during this difficult time, and I am confid ent that you will continue to build upon this foundation," Gilpin wrote to the department's ranks.

She added, "I urge you to remain focused on your continued efforts to earn and maintain the public’s trust. There is work left to be done, but I am confident it will be accomplished by the many outstanding men and women who demonstrate a relentless commitment to our organization’s mission."