Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am a full time faculty member in the Criminal Justice program, currently in my 17th year. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have worked in all areas of criminal justice, starting as a corrections officer and serving in multiple roles up to and including my role as a Deputy Chief. I am also responsible for our recruitment team and our primary emphasis is on diversity and inclusion within our organization. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Having over 27 years of criminal justice experience, with nearly 25 in a county of over 1,000,000 people, provides me with real world experience to combine with academic teaching. I really believe this resonates well with my students and shows them how the information they are learning can be, and is, applied in the criminal justice system. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I had professors with no criminal justice experience teaching me in my studies. I knew that if I had the opportunity to continue my schooling and gain the professional experience, I would love to do exactly what I am doing now. I could not be more humbled and honored to have this opportunity. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

First, that no one can ever take education from you so seek all that you can. Second, you can and will make a difference. Always treat others how you want to be treated yourself and you will be that difference. Lastly, use any negative people or situations as motivation to work harder and do more. You can always set the tone and change the narrative for the positive. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

Fulltime professor, teach criminal justice classes in policing and corrections, capstone, and process internship site visits. Course lead for CJ126-130-433. Publish in corrections.com. Involved in ABHES and ACCET accreditation as a specialist in criminal justice, and distance education. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Retired from corrections and I am still active in the field. I also participate in accreditation visits as a specialist in criminal justice and distance education for ABHES and ACCET. During my corrections career I held the following positions working with staff, inmates, and offenders on parole. Certified police officer, entered corrections as a corrections sergeant, lieutenant, personnel & training officer, SWAT Team leader, assistant warden, warden, parole administrator. Worked with diverse populations and with teens convicted as adults and adult offender populations. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I have an extensive criminal justice background with emphasis on policing and corrections. In my classes, I am able to share experiences and student importance of completing their degree. Their career fields will have an education component. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Former police officer, then entered corrections and retired. Started teach with Kaplan University and change to Purdue Global University. During my career I was also a training officer. Main emphasis was to help people and my community. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Time management and communications with your professor are a must. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I teach Fire Science and Fire and Emergency Management courses. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Retired State Fire Marshal and current Deputy Chief of a small paid department with over 30 years experience. My experience is to make sure that we develop hiring and promotional standards that attract quality applicants coming into the organization and promoting up through the organization. These practices set a clear standard to be achieved by those in the organization and the best applicant being hired or promoted based on known standards of performance and results. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Actual field experience that I can bring to the classroom and relate to students. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Started as a volunteer firefighter.

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Engage and take advantage of your educational opportunities, state certification systems, and volunteer at your local department to get needed experience. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

 I am a full time faculty member facilitating criminal justice courses. I am also a Faculty Advisor for the Order of the Sword and Shield Honor Society, and a Course Leader. The most rewarding part of my role here at PG is my honor to help students learn and understand the criminal justice system. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

 Outside of PG I was a law enforcement officer working in many different areas of the criminal justice system. I was also a training officer as one of my duties as a law enforcement practitioner, where I learned I had a passion for helping new officers learn and understand their role in the criminal justice system. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

 My experience as a law enforcement practitioner helped me have a clear understanding of the criminal justice system where I can blend academia with real world experience. This has allowed me to take learning material from the classroom and make it come alive for my students. Having prior experience as a training officer to new and incoming practitioners also helped me in understanding adult learners and their needs. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

 I have always had a desire to help people which led me to my career as a law enforcement officer. During my time as a law enforcement officer I found I had a passion for training new officers coming into the profession. This helped ease my transition from law enforcement into the teaching arena. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

 My advice to new and/or continuing students is that you can do this. With hard work and dedication you can achieve your goals. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

Adjunct instructor 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Detective specializing in sex offenses and digital forensics 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I routinely use my outside experience to provide real-world examples to the students in my classes. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I began teaching at a small private college in my area prior to applying to PG. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Be sure to keep accurate records of your education, training, and experience. That information will be helpful when seeking positions in the future. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I love teaching CJ classes at Purdue Global. This is my 13th year and I hope to continue for a long time. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I am the director of our county juvenile probation department. I am the only African American female in the county, which is 98% hispanic, in a position such as mine. I am bilingual, having grown up in the area and it is interesting when people find out that I "hablo espanol"! 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I have over 35 years of criminal justice experience with close to 20 of if working in adult corrections. I am well rounded having also worked adult probation for 3 years. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

That is a long story but in short: I was attending Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, and I called home one time too many for money. My dad told me that mom said I needed to get a job. Well in Huntsville, which is home to 7 prisons, there weren't many other options. That is where it all started! 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Volunteer/Intern at different agencies to determine what you really want to do. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I teach a range of graduate-level Criminal Justice courses, and I am passionate about progressive education and elevating academic success. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have performed numerous roles in the U.S. Air Force Security Forces career field, including as a patrolman, physical security specialist, investigator, and instructor. Over my time as a criminal investigator and law enforcement professional, I solved more than 100 criminal cases, leading to suspect convictions and thousands of dollars in financial restitution. I have led over a thousand military members and helped to develop security and law enforcement policies for the Air Force worldwide. I have learned the value of interpersonal communication over my time in the military, serving as a supervisor and a criminal investigator. This skill has been one of the critical attributes that has allowed me to be a positive leader and mentor for many different people in my life, personally and professionally. Having a level of cognitive flexibility and utilizing interpersonal communication has allowed me to take on difficult challenges in my life and helped me coach different people to overcome formidable obstacles. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Leading people is something that I have a passion for doing. Gaining experience and furthering my education has been vital in amassing technical acumen that I apply to my everyday duties, whether as a law enforcement patrolman, security and antiterrorism leader, or streamlining processes within my organization. I feel like it is my obligation to impart what I have learned to others and share my correlated real-world experience to bridge academic lessons within each course, where possible. I have been given a chance to show my capabilities of leading others in the military, and I have gained a great deal of functional knowledge that better equips me to teach students from different backgrounds. Managing other's unique talents and directing them toward a common purpose is a task I execute daily. I have always believed that the magnitude of the challenge does not affect the outcome. What affects the result is an individual's drive and ability to rely on their knowledge and experiences to solve problems. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I joined the Air Force in 2004 and was selected to join Security Forces, which is essentially military Law Enforcement and Security for the Air Force. I took on unique roles in law enforcement and supported several deployment efforts. These experiences provided an avenue for me to progress and expand my knowledge of various high-level security operations. I wanted to continue to grow in understanding different aspects of the career field, which led me to continue my pursuit of education. I taught many criminal justice courses over my career and found something I enjoyed doing. I love helping others and pushing them to achieve their goals. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Always keep an open mind and know that anything can be accomplished with discipline and perseverance. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

My role at Purdue Global is to help students achieve their educational goals. Instructing in various Criminal Justice courses allows me to help them excel in their chosen field of study. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

As a retired lieutenant from the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, I have over 30 years of law enforcement experience. His type of job placed me in contact with a wide selection of people from my community with different backgrounds, cultures and beliefs. Often times they were victims of crimes and it was my job to help them in that situation to the best of my ability not only reporting the crime, but connecting them with whatever additional resources were available to them. Additionally, I spent two years as a police service dog instructor training explosive detector dog teams from numerous foreign countries. I was afforded the opportunity to travel with U.S. State Department representatives to Portugal and Cyprus and partake in port security inspections and to check the performance of their explosive detector dog teams. These experiences working with students from some many different countries provided me with a great opportunity to learn about their society and culture. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My outside experience helps me with my classes by allowing me to apply real-life experience to my teaching style. There is much more beyond the textbooks that can be used in teaching. I have found students greatly appreciate the additional information that comes from my experiences. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

My career path began right after high school as I attended the Florida Criminal Justice Standards & Training Academy and began working my way to full-time employment in law enforcement. I began taking college courses her and there, but did not get serious about it until 1994. I graduated from the University of Alabama in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree and completed my Master of Science in Criminal Justice from UA in 2003. This accomplishment led to me teaching criminal justice courses at Shelton State Community College in the fall of 2003. From there, I found my way to teaching for Kaplan University, later to become Purdue University Global. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice to new and/or continuing students is simply to set your goals then strive toward them. No matter what may come up, never give up on achieving those goals. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

Currently a part-time Adjunct Instructor for various Criminal Justice courses.

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have spent twenty years developing two careers in law enforcement. On the military side, I served as an Enlisted Marine military police for seven and half years, with one tour in Iraq in 2003. I than switched over to the Navy reserve and started an Enlisted career as a Master at Arms (law enforcement). In 2009, I was commission as a Limited Duty Officer in the security field where I served as a Commanding officer for the rest of my tenure. Concurrently to my military career, I had a civilian law enforcement career that spanned twenty years in three police departments. The last five years I spent as the Chief of Police of the City of Richmond , Kentucky Police Department. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Purdue Global University brings a very unique faculty to the higher education field. The majority of us are real world practitioners that have worked in our career fields at the highest levels. I hope my real world experiences serve as an example of what a student can achieve. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

In all three of my careers, military, policing and teaching it has been the desire to help that has driven me. I get great satisfaction by helping other to achieve their goals. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

One word, patience. Most of our students are working adults that have a lot of life commitments. It is a lot of work to balance family, professional careers and education. If you stay with your education, it will become easier handle. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I teach course for the Bachelors of Science in Emergency Management 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Outside of Purdue Global, I serve as the Emergency Management Manager for a Level 1 trauma center in Southwest Ohio. I have over 11 years of experience in Emergency Management, Fire Sciences, and EMS. Diversity and Inclusion has long been a passion of mine and I attempt to incorporate it's concepts in every assignment that I've worked in. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My outside experience helps to provide a practical element to the course work that I teach. Being able to relate what has been learned to real-life scenarios is something that is very important when teaching students. My experience also provide a level of creditability. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I started out my professional career in public health education and quickly transitioned into the Fire/EMS services. While working at a local fire department, I had the opportunity to review and update existing emergency management plans and fell in love with the process of preparedness. I have been working in or around EM every since. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

 The foundation of Emergency Management is learning to develop relationships with your stakeholders 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

My current role at Purdue Global is full time teaching faculty member. Besides teaching, I assist the university in course development by being a course lead for several criminal justice courses. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

My professional experience includes 29 years of law enforcement experience in many different aspects in criminal justice. My educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, Master’s degree in forensic science and a Ph.D. in Public Safety. I live in Waleska, Georgia 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I have always believed that in order to be an effective teacher you needed to have real world work experience. Real world experience brings another level understanding of criminal justice to the students. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

My father spent 40 years in law enforcement, and I had several family members who were police officers. You can kind of say I was born into the business. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Your education is a journey not just a destination. Learn as much as possible during the journey. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am an adjunct. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Greetings, I am a semi-retired law enforcement officer/professor. I am an educator/trainer/consultant for my own little company called Fox - Public Safety: Training, Educating, and Consulting, LLC. Prior to this endeavor, I was an Assistant Professor and Chair for Bluefield College Adult Degree completion program for Public Safety which included Criminal Justice and Homeland Security & Emergency Management. Prior to my retirement from state service, I coordinated and taught courses for the Virginia Commonwealth University Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program and the Criminal Justice program at New College Institute in Martinsville, VA. For a short time, I was an Associate Dean of Public Safety Programs for Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC).

I served for 27 years in the field of criminal justice, 21 of which were with the Virginia State Police. I began my law enforcement career as a military policeman in the United States Army and served as a town police officer, trooper, sergeant, first sergeant, and lieutenant. I served as a field lieutenant with the state police where I commanded over 240 sworn and civilian employees. I also served as the assistant training officer where I managed the daily operations of the training academy. I also served as the statewide incident management program manager for the Virginia Department of Transportation in the operations and security division.

I earned an associate’s degree in police science from Germanna Community College, a bachelor's degree in criminal psychology and sociology from Mary Washington College, and a master's degree in criminal justice administration from Virginia Commonwealth University. I went on to earn a master of business administration degree with a specialization in criminal justice, and I earn a doctorate of philosophy in business administration with a specialization in homeland security from Northcentral University. I am a graduate of the Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course and the Virginia Commonwealth Management Institute. I completed the following training courses: Virginia State Police Basic Academy; Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy, and Military Police School.

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My practitioner experience adds value. My entire educational experience was done as an adult while working full time and raising a family. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Right out of high school I started my career path. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Don't give up. Always do your best. Manage your time well. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am an adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice section at Purdue Global, coming up on two decades here! I am also now a Purdue Global student, as well. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Outside of Purdue Global, I serve as a police chief for a large suburb in Missouri. I have been in law enforcement for 31 years. Diversity and inclusion is a signficant part of what we do. We are a public service organization, serving anyone who needs help. We have worked hard to recruit, retain and promote a diverse workforce representing our community. Our training includes annual courses about bias, culture, mental illness, and helping those with disabilities. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I am able to pass along to my students current information about the challenges and trends in law enforcement. I also interact with probation, corrections, prosecutors and many other sides to criminal justice. I provide relevant examples of how the coursework applies to criminal justice work. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

For an undergraduate college course, I was required to participate in a "ride along" with a local police department. I did so and was hooked. I like the idea of every day being a different challenge, and the job has certainly lived up to that billing. Prior to that, I hadn't thought of law enforcement as a career path, even though my father and grandfather were both police officers. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Set your goals and focus on the methods of how to achieve those goals. When barriers come your way, and they will, look at them as opportunities to learn how to overcome life's challenges. Difficult experiences aren't fun, but they build resilience and fortitude that prepares us for life ahead. You will be stronger in the end. You will also be proud of your accomplishments. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

My role here at Purdue University Global has been as an adjunct and full-time Faculty member in the Criminal Justice/Public Safety Department since 2010 preparing new students for success in online classes and their roles as criminal justice practitioners. I am also actively involved in assisting in the New Faculty Orientation, Course Lead for two courses, an editor for the Guardianship Paper, and also an advisor to the Public Safety Club. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

My background includes 30-plus years of service in a large city law enforcement agency that served a diverse population. I have worked with members of minority communities and have had multiple long-term partners who were members of minority groups and LGBTQ communities. These partners helped me understand the issues and frustrations that they had faced in law enforcement. As a result, when I was promoted through the ranks, I prioritized and connected with all underrepresented groups to ensure these groups were represented in all of the units I supervised and that they were provided opportunities for advancement and promotion. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My experiences have provided me with opportunities to understand the various groups within society and their frustration with obtaining success. As a result, I endeavor to ensure that everyone matters and is provided with the assistance needed, and the tools the tools to be successful in obtaining the careers they seek! I believe that my experiences have assisted me in connecting with my students and clearly demonstrating my willingness to assist them in being successful. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Teaching is my second career in life after a 30-plus-year career in law enforcement. For the majority of my law enforcement career, I specialized in tactical units and the physical and sexual abuse of children investigations/internet child pornography in roles as officer, Sgt., and lieutenant/watch commander. While working as a large city law enforcement agency watch commander, I was introduced to a college Criminal Justice Department Director who asked me to join that college as an adjunct instructor. I accepted the invitation and worked for several years for that college teaching various criminal justice courses to students who had graduated from the large city high schools which encompassed a diverse student body. This experience facilitated my growth as a professional educator. In 2010, I was hired by this university's predecessor was acquired by Purdue University and was renamed as Purdue University Global. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice to students is to NEVER stop learning, to be ethical/honest, be knowledgeable in law and procedures, be fair and compassionate, and to develop their communication skills! 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

My role at Purdue Global is that of an Adjunct Professor. As such I fall into the classical definition of that of a part-time Professor employed on a contractual basis who assists in the development of syllabi and teaches classes. However, most of my time is spent preparing lessons and engaging with students. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Outside of my role at Purdue Global I am a retired municipal police supervisor, a licensed private investigator, and a U.S. Army Field Grade Officer. I have a wide breadth of knowledge, skills, training, and education/experience within the criminal justice, legal, law enforcement, training, investigations, and homeland security disciplines. Being raised as a religious minority practicing Reform Judaism, I was taught to be discreet and to blend in with the majority for fear of hatred, discrimination and/or retaliation. As I grew older, I realized that a platform practiced within my religion called “Tikkun Olam” could help me overcome my fears of discrimination. The teachings under Tikkun Olam essentially imply that the world is good and that any activity brought about to help improve or repair it is a blessing. Therefore, I treat all people with the kindness, empathy, and sympathy that we all want and need. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

As a criminal justice and legal practitioner, my outside experience helps me in my Adjunct role by providing me with decades of hands-on field experience that I can pass on to my students in any course I am privileged to teach. This experience allows me to paint more vivid and rich pictures in greater dimensional perspectives that the student body can more readily digest, understand, and apply against their studies than by mere reading alone. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I was always interested in police work. After my initial enlistment in the U.S. Army ended in 1990, I applied and tested for a municipal police department entry level patrol officer position with the personal understanding and belief that if I didn’t like it I could always quit. I ended up staying until retirement. Every day was always different with many novel and unique challenges. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Persistence is one of my greatest attributes. If you can persist in your course studies, in time you will achieve your goal of completion. Prioritize what is important to you and persist in your determination. It will not always be easy or fun and requires sacrifice, but If it is important to you it will become a reality. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am a full-time instructor in the undergraduate criminal justice program (College of Social and Behavioral Sciences). I have been part of this team since 2007. I am very thankful for the opportunity to play a role in the lives of so many wonderful students. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

 I am a retired State Police Officer; my last full-time law enforcement position was Deputy Director for the Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center in Montgomery, Alabama.

I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Justice and Public Safety from Auburn University in Montgomery. I worked in the criminal justice profession for over 35 years. During this time, I investigated a variety of offenses, including arson cases, homicide investigations, and an assortment of property and white-collar crimes.

In 1991, I was privileged to attend the FBI’s National Academy, 166th Session. From 2002 through 2003, I was activated (National Guard) and served a year in Washington, DC, where I was assigned as a Special Agent with the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command. In 2004, I retired from the National Guard as Commander of the 1156th Criminal Investigative Division (CID) Detachment, Montgomery, AL.

I have conducted numerous classes over the years, training criminal justice officials in diverse topics. I am certified by the Alabama Police Officers' Standards and Training Commission as a law enforcement instructor. As a college professor since 1997 (initially part-time, now full-time), I enjoy, and it is an honor to teach students in the criminal justice curriculum. I have been married for 50 years; we have three children and five grandchildren.

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

 It guides my interaction with everyone I meet. The law enforcement profession brings you into the spotlight often. So, It is important to treat all people with respect and embrace the value of human dignity as it relates to public service. I am still very active in this field. I have opportunities to train law enforcement practitioners statewide. During these events, I have the chance to share with others the value of life-long learning, and I showcase PG everywhere I go. I love this career path. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

 As a young man, I sought a position that fit what I believed I had been called and chosen to fill. Public service is that path. Instructing at PG is part of that servanthood. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

 Seek that path for which your skills, abilities, and talents fit. Prepare yourself; body, mind, and spirit. Pray for guidance. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I have been at Purdue Global since 2014 as an adjunct faculty member and have been fortunate to be part of team made of scholar practitioners that provide invaluable insight to tomorrows Public Safety responders and leaders. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I reside in Jamestown New York, which is 90 miles southwest of Buffalo in the heart of snow country. I am married (Brooke) and have 4 daughters, 5, 10, 18, and 22. In 2008 I completed my M.S. in Public Safety with a specialization in Emergency Management at Capella University and decided to embark into the PhD realm of Criminal Justice. I received my PhD at Capella in May of 2012. My dissertation focused on the influence that education and experience have on police officers ethical orientations. My studies have also taught me that we are always learning, and we all have something to add to this process. I teach at several Universities both on line and traditional brick and mortar.

I recently retired from the Jamestown Police Department as the Operations Division Commander. As a Captain I supervised 50 sworn police officers within the patrol side of the department. I was also a Medivac helicopter pilot for the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office (no time to fly as much as I would like). I received my Commercial, Instrument, Multi-Engine, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Helicopter rating years ago at Florida Tech. (Melbourne, FL) and was afforded the opportunity to join the Starflight Helicopter Program. This medical helicopter serves all of western New York and areas of Pennsylvania. My prior position with the Jamestown Police Department was that of Detective Lieutenant. I was responsible for a Domestic Violence Unit within the department that handled over 1400 domestic calls last year, was an Arson Task Force supervisor, Homicide Task Force and supervised Drug Task Force Agents, a Forensic Unit and a wealth of other specialties. During my policing career I was an active S.W.A.T. member, FBI Certified Hostage Negotiator, Community Services Supervisor, as well as Honor Guard. The Jamestown area, also known as the rust belt, has a population of approximately 29,000 with low incomes and unemployed individuals that rely heavily upon social services and assisted living programs. The police department has established numerous collaborations with institutions in many professional fields to address this ever dynamic and changing society.

I am a New York State certified police instructor having taught numerous specialties at the Zone 13 Police Training Academy in Chautauqua County. I also instruct criminal and psychological profiling for tri-state (NY, PA, OH) nurses completing the Sexual Assaulting Nursing Examiners course. Additionally, I teach Introduction to Homeland Security with an Emergency Management perspective at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Fredonia, as well as Interview and Interrogation at our local Jamestown Community College (J.C.C). I also hold numerous credentials from the Department of Homeland Security (FEMA) in areas of Radiological Emergency Management, State Disaster Management, Hazardous Weather and Community Risk Assessment, Incident Command System, National Incident Management System (N.I.M.S.), and National Response Framework. In 2003 I co-directed the largest (at the time) terrorism drill in New York State. This drill involved the 4 western counties in New York State and over 350 public safety personnel.

In April of 2004 I was honored with an invitation to attend the FBI National Academy (217th Session) and completed numerous courses at the graduate level including studies in criminal psychology and interview strategies. The 10 weeks spent at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA was the experience of a lifetime.

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I have been a college professor since 2012 and continue to embrace learning and self-better. Teaching is a discipline of inquiry and instructors should be dedicated to the advancement of scholarship to real-world practitioners. I strive to convey my lived practitioner and scholarly knowledge in an effective, efficient, and impartial manner within the confines of an engaging learning environment. To be an effective educator, one must have a deep understanding of the subject matter as well as underlying theory. As a lifelong learner, I continue to be proactive about my expertise, by continuously reviewing current research on various topics of interest. I am passionate about advancing my students’ ability to become responsible for their own learning, outside the classroom. In the classroom I employ a student-centered approach, I encourage my students and provide a multi-disciplinary approach/assessment to the subject matter taught. I believe students must be exposed to the broad spectrum of perspectives that exist in academia- this is the true cornerstone of a liberal education. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

My career was met with many roadblocks when finishing my aeronautics degree at Florida Tech. Having received my Commercial, Instrument, Multi-engine, Certified Flight Instructor, and Helicopter ratings I was met with an obstacle of a bad hiring market for pilots. Not giving up, I went back to school, a Sheriff’s Academy and landed a police job. I was fortunate to ascend the ranks quickly and was even hired part time as a medi-vac helicopter pilot. It was education that provided these opportunities. The next career path opportunity was selection to the FBI National Academy. This educational opportunity lit the fire and desire for more education and paved the way for my graduate and PhD achievements. Securing advanced degrees opened many job opportunities and I acknowledge that the opportunities and successes along my career path are the result of education and learning. My advice to all is to keep learning. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

The secret to success in Purdue Global courses is keeping up to date with everything that is expected of you. Review of the syllabus early and often, get familiar with the course room, and take note of all discussion postings and assignments, for which you are responsible. Then adjust your schedule accordingly. Remember, you are not alone in this class, and I will be here to assist and guide you through this session of your academic journey. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am a adjunct professor who has taught HM500 Crisis and Emergency Management Fundamentals, HM501Homeland Security Policies, Principles, Procedures, and Plans, and HM502 Risk, Vulnerability, and Capability Assessment Methods. I have served as a course lead, assisted with updating rubrics, learning activities, and assignments. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have both a law enforcement and military background. I have approximately 12 years experience in civilian law enforcement. I spent 30 years in the Coast Guard Reserve Program (approximately ten years on full time orders). I am currently a Coast Guard civilian employee working for Coast Guard Headquarters in Washington, DC as a security specialist (port/recovery). The Coast Guard is a diverse organization and I have always felt fully supported and valued for my work. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My work background matches the courses I have taught. For example, I have used risk assessment models. My current position has provided me with experience with developing policies, plans, and guidance documents for the Area Maritime Security Committees. In each job position I learned another skill that I could pass on to help others in their academic/career journey. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I had just completed my doctorate program and released from "Title 10" (full time) back to reserve drilling status and looking for a full time federal civilian position. I had substitute taught for public schools in the past and I decided in 2011 to look for part time online positions. I started at another university teaching in their undergraduate criminal justice program and in 2013 was hired by Kaplan (now Purdue Global). 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Find a balance. Many of the students I have taught have families, jobs, school, and other demands. Communicate with you instructors if you have questions or need to update them on an assignment. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am a fulltime faculty member and also oversee three courses. I have taught over 35 different undergraduate and graduate courses, served a course lead/emphasis area expert for 18 different courses, and have mentored new faculty and students. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

My practical experience as a deputy and working corrections, along with years of practicing criminal law as an attorney, coupled with over a decade of teaching literally every topic taught to police and correctional cadets (except first aid), has given me a fabulous background and allows me to respond knowledgably, even when student conversations get off topic or there is an interesting current event that gets brought up in class. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I have served as a deputy sheriff, correctional officer, and practiced criminal law. I have taught patrol techniques, criminal investigations, interpersonal skills, traffic, communications, legal concepts, constitutional law, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics, and firearms to law enforcement recruits and advanced training courses to certified law enforcement officers. Additionally, I have taught correctional operations, legal concepts, constitutional law, defensive tactics, and firearms to correctional officer recruits and advanced training courses to certified correctional officers. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Once I began teaching at the police academy, I realized my love for teaching. When I began teaching online (all I need is a computer and internet), I was able to combine that love with my passion for international mission work. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Before you begin, calculate the cost (not just money, but also the time and sacrifices you will need to make in order to succeed) and then, follow your dreams!  

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

 I teach criminal justice classes. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

 I am an attorney in Illinois and have been practicing law for 33 years. I prosecute for a couple of municipalities, defend criminals as well as assisting people in family law matters. I am a mom of three adult children and a fur baby. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

 Having life experiences that students may also have helps me to understand the many roles our students juggle. Further, my work with experience provides practical examples of the concepts I teach. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

 I am a rule-follower by nature and enjoy helping others. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

 Keep at it. You can reach your dreams. Everyone’s path is different. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am a professor of homeland security and emergency management in the MSHSEM program. I serve as course leader for several courses. In addition, I serve on committees and mentor new faculty as needed. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have 15 years of experience working in police and fire emergency communications in major cities. I spent 12 of years in a supervisory role. I have over 10 years of experience teaching graduate and doctoral level students at multiple universities, working with a wide variety of students. I have also worked for institutional review boards to help ensure ethics and the protection of human participants in research. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My experience working for multiple agencies, universities, and institutional review boards has provided me with a diverse and comprehensive background in public safety, research, and education. I apply this knowledge in the classroom to help students achieve their goals of higher education and prepare themselves for successful careers in public safety. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I went back to school for my master’s degree simply because I wanted to continue to learn. After completing that program, I decided to pursue a Ph.D. to complement my graduate degree in emergency management with a homeland security degree. I earned both degrees online while working full-time. After graduating with my doctorate, I began teaching part-time. Several years later, I decided to leave my job with the police department to work solely in academia. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice to new students is to never lose sight of why you are here and why you are pursuing higher education. It won’t always be easy, and life happens along the way. However, with strong skills in planning, time management, organization, and a commitment to your own success, you can achieve your goals. Remember that it is a learning process, and you should expect to be challenged to step outside of your comfort zones to increase your knowledge, understanding, and capabilities. Your education is yours alone, and only you can earn it – always keep your goals in mind. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I've taught a variety of courses here at Purdue for a few years now, including: CJ102 Criminology I, CJ110 Introduction to Crime Analysis, CJ200 Fundamentals of Psychological Profiling, CJ233 Introduction to Forensic Psychology, CJ352 Corrections in the Twenty-First Century, CJ370 Crime Scene Investigation II, CJ420 Juvenile Justice, and CJ433 Probation and Parole. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have 20 years of field experience in Criminal Justice with the Lake County Sheriff’s Department (Ohio) in a variety of roles: 2003-2005 911 Dispatching (FT); 2005-2011 Adult Correctional Officer (FT), 2011- Present Juvenile Correction Officer (PT). Through my criminal justice service to the community, I've been able to interact with all different types of people from all different walks of live and I love taking that appreciation for diversity and inclusion into the classroom! 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

RESEARCH INTERESTS: Delivery, Funding, Programmatic Quality, and Outcomes of Post-Secondary Correctional Education (PSCE), both in-prison and post-release; Role of Mentoring in the Lives of Prisoners; Challenges Surrounding Prisoner Reentry

PAST RESEARCH: Following the loss of Pell Grant funding for prisoners via the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1993, the majority of college-in-prison programs collapsed overnight, and any in-progress research on attendance patterns, academic advising, remedial needs, persistence, attrition, completion, in-class contributions, funding sources, and post-graduation prospects came to a halt. Livingston and Miller (2014) lamented, “We know of no research that has investigated the experiences of and challenges faced by students post-incarceration in university settings” (p. 218). A year after that statement was published, my research was published, filling that distinct and noteworthy gap with my phenomenological analysis of the Colson Scholars’ higher education transitions.

CURRENT RESEARCH: Having worked in adult and juvenile corrections continually since 2005, I have seen firsthand that prisons can be schools of crime, that they can contribute to the school-to-prison-pipeline, and that education can make a tremendous difference in the community reintegration of citizens returning from periods of incarceration. This work with inmate populations has inspired me to learn more about their experiences in higher education environments in order to publicize what I have learned so as to improve upon those experiences and especially those outcomes of employment, reduced recidivism and increased community involvement. As a result, I served on the Wood County Reentry Coalition while in Bowling Green and spend one year of my Graduate Assistantship conducting reentry research for the coalition where I planned, organized and led teams of researchers into fifteen prisons in the state of Ohio to learn more about the reentry challenges facing citizens returning to Wood County after release or those who were adjudicated through Wood County courts. This service to the community resulted in two team-developed white papers about how to best meet these identified reentry challenges for Wood County: 1) Wood County Project Homeless Connect: Final Report for Event Held October 16, 2013 (Dec 2013), and 2) Wood County Reentry Coalition: Needs Assessment Survey Results (Apr 2015).

FUTURE RESEARCH: Beginning in 2015, the US Dept of Education launched the “Second Chance Pell Experimental Sites Initiative” which restored Pell Grant funding to the incarcerated and recently-released for the pursuit of their education in order to aid their transition back into society, to avoid their return to prison, and to promote law-abiding as they reenter society. Recidivism reduction is critical to the criminal justice system today not only for safety reasons, but also for pragmatic and financial reasons, as Schmitt et al. (2010) calculated that a release of “non-violent” offenders (60% of correctional populations) could restore nearly a fourth of the nation’s correctional budgets so that they could be reinvested for other purposes “without any appreciable deterioration in public safety” (p. 12). While we await adoption of such wide-spread measures, Second Chance Pell funding has allowed correctional education programs to proliferate once again across approved institutions and the ramifications for successful prisoner reentry seem promising. The role education has to play in the success of these returning citizens continues to drive my future research interests. In fact, in Chicago later this month at the MCJA conference, I am presenting “Earning Credits & Credentials: A Second Chance on the Path Back to Pell.” My future research agenda is expected to pursue this pathway investigating Correctional Education efforts in Ohio along the previously-mentioned lines as well as pursuing publication in the Journal of Correctional Education housed at Ashland University.

How did you find your way to your career path?

I believe my interest in Criminal Justice is really part of the way God created me. I have a lot of diverse interests, but the fact that this one is where I want to spend my time, effort and energy really speaks to how He has equipped me to serve my community. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice to new students is to not underestimate the time commitment and level of rigor required to succeed at Purdue Global. I'd tell continuing students to make sure they are supplementing their online education with practical real-world experiences in their communities (police ride-alongs, court visits, jail and prison tours, workplace shadowing, internships, etc.) 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

My role at Purdue Global has been as a full-time professor in the Criminal Justice/Public Safety Department for over 19 years. I prepare students to become successful in their education and future careers. I mainly instruct the CJ100 class but have taught many other classes at Purdue Global. I am devoted to helping my students achieve success on many levels. I work closely with our Public Safety Team toward student success. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

My roles over the past forty years have been very diversified. I have taught aerobics for over forty years (certified in group exercise, water aerobics and arthritis classes). I have taught religious education for over thirty years as well. I have volunteered with victims on many levels and detention centers (education department). My past experience includes working in a federal prison and the state police. It has been a whirlwind of experience that has helped shape me into the professor I am today. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I have worked in criminal justice for over forty years. All of my outside experience has helped me interact with Purdue students who come from diverse backgrounds. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Education and thought I was going to teach for my career. During my senior year at college, I had an internship with a grant writing agency that issued grants for their programs. I was a grant writer and loved helping others meet future goals for their agency (reducing crime and criminal behavior). I fell in love with criminal justice and hence my first job was in a maximum security prison. I then worked for the Illinois State Police. I returned to my original career goal of teaching after twenty years. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice to new and continuing students is to be devoted to securing their degree so they can explore options for a future in their desired field. To reach that goal, I try to keep my students focused and passionate in their studies. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I teach and have taught most of the undergraduate courses offered in Criminal Justice over the last 19 years. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have 42 years of military experience, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer. I have over 30 years of law enforcement experience, including as an instructor at the Chicago Police Academy teaching all phases of police work. I also have over 10 years of experience in private security. All of this experience necessitated diversity and inclusion.

I volunteer with the Boy Scouts and the Civil Air Patrol where diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of all activities. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Through the leadership and team training received throughout my varied careers, my role as an instructor has been made much easier and stronger. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Initially, I planned on being in the military and making that a full-time career. I changed focus and became involved in law enforcement making that my career. At a point near the end of my police career, I decided I needed to do more and teach, so I became an adjunct professor. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Never give up on your goals! Keep your eye on the prize that you want to achieve. You can do it! 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

FT Professor teaching criminal justice classes each term for Purdue Global. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Nine years with the Cedar Falls, iowa Police Department as a patrol officer, Officer of the Year and promoted Detective. 21 years at all levels with the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. 32.5 years with the United Stated Air Force/Iow Air National Guard at world wide deployment locations and specialized training at the Pentagon, Guard Bureau, Readiness Center and Support Services at Anderews AFB and Bolling Air Force Base at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (E9). 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Civilian law enforcement and similar work in the military are interconnected. My main goal was to teach the subject at hand and also address pension related employment in the states my students live in. As an example, in Iowa we have a Department of Public Safety and a Division of Criminal Investiation, a State Crime Lab and A State Medical Examiners Officer. All other states have similiar agencies and a wide array of pension related employment agencies. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I hale from both a law enforcement and military family and have learned much about both to assist me in my duties as a FT Professor teaching undergraduate criminal justice at Purdue University Global. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Understand the United Sates Constitution, Constitutional Law and the system of criminal justice we have in the United States. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

Adjunct Instructor, 19 years 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I am a former Chicago Police Officer and Sgt, 7yrs. I am a Prosecutor in Cook County, 24 years, and supervisor of the Gun Crime Strategy Unit. I have taught for 26 years. I also teach for DePaul law school, and Northwestern University's Center for Public Safety, School of Police Staff and Command. I am a professional boxing judge, and have done 35 world title fights all over the world (Argentina, Canada, England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Thailand, Japan, China, among other places). I still remain active judging amateur boxing, and working with underprivileged youth. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I bring in a wealth of police, prosecuting, boxing, and life experience. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

College, police, law school while a police officer. Chicago Police paid for law shool, I started teaching while still on the department, in 1998. I owed the city two years of service when I was done with school. I left to become a prosecutor in January 2000, and I have been teaching college, law school, and law enforcement since 1998. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Work hard, have a goal, budget your time, and never be afraid to seek help. Everyone is new at something at some point in your life, we all need to be helped by someone. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

 Adjunct Faculty (graduate) in criminal justice 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

 Retired police captain; currently full-time professor at state university in my area and adjunct at several colleges/universities. My specific DEI emphasis is on gender equality and age discrimination. After retiring as a police captain with an impeccable service record and unparalleled qualifications, I was explicitly denied a police chief position due to my gender. (The specific statement made at two separate interviews was that a woman could not effectively supervise and lead male police officers.) I ultimately won a federal discrimination lawsuit. From that bitter-sweet victory, I was motivated to reignite my quest to earn a Ph.D. and enter the academic arena, only to realize age discrimination in academia was rampant. After several years of not even getting an interview, I ultimately removed all references to years from my C.V. I was instantly was bombarded with interviews and multiple employment offers. My current goal is to cultivate an atmosphere of respect and acceptance for all individuals, irrespective of their age, gender, race, religion, or other status. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

 Non-traditional students place a higher value on real world experience than on research. My 25+ years in law enforcement enhances my credibility in the non-traditional classroom. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

 I entered law school at a time when the profession was dramatically changing into a heavily commercialized enterprise rather than the noble profession of earlier times. I did not want to be a part of that shifting philosophy, so I joined the police department just as I was finishing law school. My law degree could still be used for a noble purpose in the crime-fighting arena, even if I no longer wanted to use it to join a law firm. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

 Finish what you start. If you start a degree program, commit to seeing it through until the end. All too often we lose bright, talented, experienced professionals because of burn-out. But those are the people who are most needed in our workplaces. Conquer that goal one class at a time, and get 'er done. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

My role here at Purdue Global in the criminal justice department consists of teaching a number of courses that will aide in student success and to collaborate with my colleagues as we collectively build one of the most successful criminal justice programs in the United States. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

As an entrepreneur in health and wellness and a certified yoga teacher I am able to provide my community with healthier alternatives to medicine / supplements at an affordable price that will allow individuals from different backgrounds and cultures to live healthier lifestyles. My past experiences of working in the fields of corrections, mental health, forensic science and instructing at a 2 year institution allowed me to refine my skills and tackle the diversity and inclusion issues that are present. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My outside experiences consist of 15 plus years of direct work and educational experience in the fields of criminal justice and forensic science, has and will continue to aide in my overall success as a full-time faculty member here at PG. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

After working in the fields of corrections, mental health and forensic science I knew that I wanted and needed to share all of my obtained knowledge, skills and abilities with others and I decided to make conscious decision and enter into academia. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

The advice that I would share to new and or continuing students would be to find their passion, focus and perfect their individual craft and stay the course. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I have been a part-time Adjunct Professor in Criminal Justice for the past 13 years. I mainly teach Family and Domestic Violence but have also enjoyed teaching Crisis Intervention, Juvenile Justice, Drugs and Alcohol in the Criminal Justice System, and others. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have a Master's degree in Criminal Justice (Substance Abuse), a Master's degree in Public Safety, a Master's in Adult Education and Instructional Technology, a Master's in Psychology, a Bachelor's in Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Associate degrees in the Arts, Business, and Marketing. I have completed thirty-seven certifications as a Law Enforcement Trainer, Moral Reconation Therapist, and many other areas. I am Certified in Domestic Violence by the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. In short, my career has spanned narcotics, corrections, probation, emergency management, and counseling, with most of my present time devoted to violence research and performing population-specific counseling or coaching for domestic violence perpetrators and victims, respectively. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My varied experience allows a wide range of students to understand the integration of public safety and various wraparound services to appreciate better the full spectrum of systems this great nation provides in most jurisdictions if people know where to go for support. Communicating my career trajectory with humility and transparency helps them maximize their effectiveness in various public safety occupations. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I began my career in the military and found my passion in narcotics. With a few occasional exits to regroup, my career has allowed me to be on gang task forces, work strategically at the Atlanta Olympics, and teach deciphering of encrypted gang writing at the federal level. I am curious, and pursuing that curiosity is exhilarating and fun! As long as you are true to yourself and honest with your team, public safety can provide you with tremendous experiences. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Remember that the public safety community you join, regardless of the department size, is a small world. You never know who will know you or remember you from years prior, and you must be prepared for that impact. Always strive to do your best, expect there always to be someone who can do your job better, and use every opportunity to improve your skills so you will be a positive example for someone else. Do not expect every day to be a good day. Instead, expect every day to be a learning day and make it one if it is not. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I teach multiple courses in all areas in criminal justice and also emergency management. I have extensive knowledge in corrections, terrorism, and emergency response. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have a Ph.D. in criminal justice. I have over 20 years field experience in Criminal Justice including, Corrections, Corrections Emergency Response, Parole, Defensive Tactics trainer, Disciplinary Hearing Chairman for the Department of Corrections, Hostage Negotiator, Hostage Negotiator trainer, and Active Shooter Survival Trainer. I am published with work in the area of best practice after incident debriefing techniques for hostage negotiators. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations which greatly enriches the classroom experience for myself and my students. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My outside experience is fairly extensive which helps me to articulate my experiences to my students and give them a more well rounded education and view of the topic. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I starting adjunct teaching and training new officers years ago and truly enjoyed the experience. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Enjoy the learning process. If you enjoy a topic, learning will happen easily and it will be a rewarding experience. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

Part-time Adjunct Professor for the past 9 years in Criminal Justice. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I have an MSM Criminal Justice, an MBA Human Resource Management, a BA in Criminal Justice, and a BA in Sociology. I previously had a chemical dependency licensure in the state of Ohio. I currently have my CSP and aPHR certifications.

I have 15+ years of post-secondary teaching experience in both Business and Criminal Justice. During that time, I was the Program Chair for both the schools of Business and Criminal Justice. I have experience in running static groups such as domestic violence, anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and thinking for a change in a community based corrections facility that housed adult male felony offenders. I have experience with private investigation for worker's comp fraud investigations.

I currently am a Corporate Hiring and Risk Specialist responsible for safety and risk management. I am also a published children's author of a book called Go To Sleep My Love. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I am able to use my experiences running the various static groups to incorporate the ideas and processes into my courses so that my students can see how the theories are applicable in real life scenarios. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I always knew I wanted to do something that would help people on some level. I enjoyed the counseling aspect of working with individuals in the criminal justice system and now I enjoy helping others find their own career path. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice is to remember what the reason was that motivated you to choose the education path that you chose to begin with. That will help you when you hit any road blocks or stumbles along the way. Also, remember to ask for help if you need it. Communication is key! Your instructor or advisor can't help you if you don't let them know what is going on. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am an adjunct faculty member at Purdue Global in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, specifically teaching Fire and Emergency Management courses. I have also recently undertaken the role of revising courses within these programs. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Outside of Purdue Global, I have significant experience in emergency services and local government, including roles in the fire service, emergency management, emergency medical services, and land use planning. In addition, I have many years of teaching experience both in-person and online with a large community college in North Carolina. I have an undergraduate degree in Geography, a Master's in Public Administration concentrated in Emergency Management, and a PhD in Public Policy.

I have, and continue to interact with people of many backgrounds and cultures through my experiences, both in my personal and work lives, and feel that in order to provide the best government service or best education to students, we must embrace our differences, while also looking for similar areas to connect while we learn from each other and move forward together. We cannot be successful as individuals and thus it is important that we build relationships with people of various background to move forward and ensure success in each other. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My work experience, and teaching experience, provides real world knowledge and lessons that can be passed onto my students. While teaching theory is important, it is even more important in many of my courses to teach real world examples so these students are ready to be successful in their careers once they complete their educational journey with Purdue Global. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

I have had a life long passion for emergency services and serving others, which directed me towards a path in public safety and local government. I attempted other routes for other sectors but always hit walls that merely redirected me to the path where I belonged. I then worked hard by obtaining as much education as I could in relevant areas to my current position, both in my roles outside of Purdue Global and within it. Knowledge is power, as is forming positive relationships, and maintaining a strong work ethic. These have been key in my career path. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice to new and continuing students would be to stay the course. It will be challenging and it will be hard, but it will also be rewarding. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

Professor Fire Science 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I currently work as a houseparent for twelve teenage boys at a boarding school. Chores, meals, being a role model and mentor are daily responsibilities. I involve these students into the community with a volunteer junior firefighter program. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Being an active fire officer allows me to bring the real world into the classroom. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Basic skills learned in Scouts involve starting fires and using knives. There is a chance for bad things to happen with these skills and camp staff was required to apply fire suppression and first aid on a regular basis. The emergency response skills are needed in your local community and I have been a volunteer firefighter for more than 30 years. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Match the required knowledge, skills, and abilities of your dream job to your resume. If you lack the training and experience, you will need to seek those lessons before you will get an interview. Apply for your dream job as often as possible. Even a rejection at a job is an opportunity to learn for the next attempt. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am a professor teaching in the Graduate Public Safety Programs. I also serve as a member of the CoSBS' Diversity and Inclusion Action Committee. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Dr. Vah Seliskar has more than eighteen years of experience in higher education. Dr. Vah Seliskar is a professor within the Graduate Public Safety Programs, and has served as an Academic Department Chair, Assistant Academic Department Chair, and as an instructor in the undergraduate criminal justice programs at Purdue University Global. Dr. Vah Seliskar’s previous experience includes working as a Program Coordinator for the United Way of Greater Cleveland, the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, and the Mandel Foundation in Ohio. Dr. Vah Seliskar received her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Kent State University (OH); a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Tiffin University (OH), a Bachelor of Arts from Cleveland State University (OH), and an Associate of Applied Science from Atlantic Cape Community College (NJ). Dr. Vah Seliskar’s research interests include restorative justice, restorative practices in K-12 and in higher education, restorative practices in the workplace, subjectivity in qualitative research, and best practices in online learning, teaching, and mentoring.

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My outside experiences influence the way I teach and interact with students, as I strive to be a restorative educator and scholar, and aim to nurture and guide all of the students within the classes I teach at Purdue University Global. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

A former professor and Dean at Kaplan said to me that I would make a good teacher and to stay in touch after I graduated with my MSCJ; eighteen years later, I am still here. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Remember why you started this journey when you feel like quitting! Believe in yourself and you can accomplish anything, but you have to fight hard for it! If you truly want something, you will get it! 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I am a Professor of Criminal Justice in the MSCJ program. In addition to teaching graduate level courses, I also am a member of several committees and am a course leader for two courses. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

I am a retired law enforcement officer with over 25 years of service. I worked for the Collier County Sheriff's Office for my last 22+ years. Collier County is a very diverse area, from multi-million dollar homes to migrant (filed workers) camps and everything in between. And all within five to ten minutes of each other. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My law enforcement experiences directly relate to my teaching. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

My career path stared as a patrolman in a small New England town. Wanting a more diverse career path I started work with the Collier County Sheriff's Office where I move from patrol to property crimes investigations (burglaries, thefts vandalism, etc.), to violent crime investigations (sex crimes, murders, robberies, etc.) and finally to supervising an economic crimes (aka white-collar crime) unit. My career path in education started with earning two masters degrees (MSCJ and MPA) and a PhD (Criminal Justice Administration). This lead to three adjunct teaching positions and ultimately teaching full time at PG. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

1. Do not procrastinate. Submit assignments on time. The six week courses fly by and getting behind ends up cascading from week to week.

2. Read, understand, and follow the directions provided in discussions, seminars, and assignments.

3. Ask for help early on.

4. Take advantage of what PG has to offers, webinars, Writing Center, the library, tutors. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I serve as a Course Lead and instructor for FS304. I also instruct leadership and emergency management courses when requested. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Being a first-generation American citizen, and having to learn English as a second language I discovered early-on that many people craft perceptions about individuals that are far from fact. Because of this experience, I seek to learn who individuals are, before forming any opinion. I am an Army veteran, currently serving as the Deputy Fire Chief of Human Resources and Training for a large municipal fire department. Additionally, I served in an elected capacity as a town commissioner for a small North Carolina community. I have over 30 years of experience in emergency services, and 15 years of experience in education. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

I enjoy a wide array of real-world experiences that I can share with students who are considering fire or emergency management career pathways. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

This is a very long story, and not on purpose! 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Never quit. You'll be amazed at what you are really capable of! 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I currently serve Purdue University Global as a Full-Time Faculty member with the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Dept. of Criminal Justice.  Additionally, I am the Course Lead for: CJ100 Preparing for a Career in Public Safety, CJ140 Constitutional Law, CJ227 Criminal Procedure and CJ230 Criminal Law. I also currently serve as a member of the Faculty Senate, the University-wide Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences focused Diversity and Inclusion Action Committee, the Leadership and Learning Advisory Committee, the GEL Committee as well as multiple other ad hoc policy and leadership committees at the University and school levels. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Outside of my Purdue University Global activities, I am fortunate to have 5 university level textbooks in the criminal justice field and more than 25 published articles on issues in the corrections area to my name.  These publication and scholarship activities enable me to bring current issues into the classroom where we can discuss what students are seeing in the news media now and in many cases, are experiencing themselves.  Diversity, equity, and inclusion is always at the forefront of my mind as evidenced by a number of articles I am especially proud of, including where the issues associated with the crisis in Native American juvenile justice, the incarceration race gap, and the ripple effects of minority incarceration were examined.

I also maintain close relationships with long term associates in the legal profession.  Those relationships have resulted in consulting on cases in both the criminal and civil arenas.  Diversity, equity, and inclusion has always played a strong role in both of these areas.  In criminal cases, my goal is to work to get the very best result the client.  On the civil side, I have had the honor to help numerous members of the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities form business entities to and help them on the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey.  

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My outside experiences help to keep me grounded and serve as a constant "reality check" as to the issues and challenges that people face now, especially those members who identify in the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.  I am able to bring my experiences into both the classroom and my committee work.  In the classroom, I am able to take what I gain from these experiences and share them with students.  In doing so, students are exposed to the challenges of people who might be outside of their individual "eco-system" in a way that promotes a lively discourse and understanding of the challenges that other face.  In my committee work, my centric is to always come from one of inclusivity and offer suggestions and recommendations that are inclusive and equitable. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

When I was in a corporate environment, I developed a reputation as the person who could solve problems where others had not succeeded. I quickly learned that it was one thing to solve a problem but another to expect others to be able to maintain it.  Maintaining the solution required teaching and helping people to change what they had been doing so the gains we had achieved could be sustained.  I noted that I enjoyed helping people, explaining things to them, expanding their context and getting them to the point of having that "a-ha" moment.  When the opportunity to join what has become Purdue University Global was presented, I saw it as an opportunity to not only continue having that on-on-one impact, but to expand that into a one-to-many impact as well. That opportunity was both exciting and fulfilling to me.  And it continues to be every term, every class, and every student. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My number one piece of advice comes not from me, but from what students who have been in my courses have said.  It is simply---don't be afraid to ask questions.  I would completely agree with this.  When you are learning something for the first time, it is unrealistic to think that you will always understand everything you are being taught or that you will always succeed.  When you don't understand or are having a hard time with an idea, concept, or activity, ask your instructor questions...ask in seminar, ask via email, or ask by phone.  Our faculty are all very accessible.  The accessibility of faculty to students is a core part of our DNA and one of the things that has always impressed me about our institution -- the openness and willingness of our faculty to help students to succeed. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

As a full time, faculty member, I am responsible for delivering high-quality seminar course material to undergraduate students in various criminal justice courses. I work closely with students to foster an exciting and diverse learning environment where students are able to excel in their studies. I also participate in departmental and university committees, such as curriculum development committees or faculty search committees, to contribute to the overall functioning and development of the academic institution. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Outside of Purdue Global, I work with juvenile offenders as a Juvenile Arbitrator. My primary responsibilities involve working with young offenders who have committed delinquent acts. As a Juvenile Arbitrator, I preside over arbitration hearings, which are less formal than court proceedings. During these hearings, I listen to evidence, question witnesses, and make determinations on the case. Based on the circumstances of each case, juvenile arbitrators create personalized plans of action for juvenile offenders. These plans may include requirements such as counseling, community service, restitution, or educational programs. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

As a juvenile arbitrator, I have hands-on experience working within the juvenile justice system. This real-world experience can be highly valuable in a classroom setting, as it provides practical examples and insights that can enhance the theoretical understanding of criminal justice concepts. Juvenile arbitrators are well-versed in the ethical standards that guide their profession. This understanding of ethics and professional conduct can be instilled in students to help them develop a strong sense of ethics within the criminal justice field. My experience as a juvenile arbitrator also involves educating young offenders about the legal system, their rights, and responsibilities. This experience helps to translate into effective teaching techniques for engaging and educating students in a classroom setting. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

 I needed a change in my life. I was working in a job where there was little upward mobility, and it was just not some place that I could see doing the rest of my life. I decided to continue my education in Criminal Justice and was very lucky to have some amazing mentors while working on my master's degree at Kaplan University. My mentors saw something in me and I happened to be in the right place at the right time when KU was looking for new CJ adjuncts and the rest is kismet! 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

You are making a short-term sacrifice for a lifetime of possibility & professional progress. Some days are going to be much easier than others, but I promise you that it is worth it! Make a time management plan and put it in place and reach out to your Professors and Advisors when you need help or just some words of encouragement. We are here for you and want nothing but your success! You've Got This!!! 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

I instruct courses in the criminal justice program, develop curriculum for courses, and evaluate student course petitions. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

 30+ years in the policing profession. Police academy instruction in numerous topics around the world. International experiences in police and governmental reform programs in developing nations. Understanding and engaging with numerous cultures and genders has always been a component of career success in my role(s). 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

 It allows me to provide practitioner knowledge to augment the courses that I instruct. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

An internship with the Seattle Police Department as an undergraduate. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

Be resilient. A degree can help you in your career is so many ways. 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

Since 2020, I have been serving as the Assistant Academic Department Chair in Public Safety. The role allows me to work with faculty and students in several capacities. It is ensuring faculty have the tools to be successful; while simultaneously ensuring students are successful in the classroom and acquire the skills needed for their career goals. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Diversity and inclusion are essential principles in many aspects of my role outside of PG. For me, community service, professional organizations, and outreach programs have allowed me to embrace and foster a diverse and inclusive community. In doing so, I’ve learned and captured first-hand how it leads to innovative ideas and personal growth while simultaneously ensuring others have an equal opportunity to grow and thrive to their fullest potential. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

Outside the university, I am active in the community and professional organizations. As the President of the American Society of Public Administrations – Georgia Chapter, it allowed me to understand the role and skills needed to be a leader within an organization that works with administrators, faculty, and students from various collegiate institutions. Additionally, I am a member of the Junior League of Atlanta, I volunteer at food banks, and my community church. The experiences allow me to gain knowledge and insight into the tools necessary to be effective in my role. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

The opportunity to work with faculty, students, and administration at the collegiate level is something I began more than 20 years ago. However, each opportunity within my career has prepared me for my current role and other opportunities that will come in the collegiate arena. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice is to set clear goals, remain focused, and be dedicated. Yes, there may be challenges, but create a community of support. You will succeed. See you at graduation! 

Tell us about your role here at Purdue Global.

As Associate Dean, my role encompasses all things PG Public Safety and Legal Studies from students, to faculty, curriculum, general oversight, forward vision, and more. The best part of my job is working directly with colleagues, faculty, and students alike. We have such a great team of students and professionals in our programs and it is my mission that all PG Public Safety and Legal Studies stakeholders feel supported in their academic and career pursuits. 

Tell us about your background and roles outside of PG. 

Interestingly, most of my career in higher education has been at PG. However, I previously developed online courses for Pearson Education and have taught both online and on-ground at other institutions. Prior to entering college myself, I was a military police officer in the Air Force. Being both in the military and having a long career in higher education, I have worked with individuals from all walks of life, and I always enjoy hearing about the lived experiences of others. I've learned that what I cannot see for myself in a lifetime, I can experience through the reflections of others when engaging in conversation. The ability to "walk a mile in someone else's shoes" is much easier when you hear their perspective directly. 

How does your outside experience help with your role here?

My former roles in the military and at other institutions helped me gain entry to a long career path at Purdue Global. Since 2005, I have served happily in various roles at PG including student, faculty, academic advisor, advising manager, associate director, chair, and associate dean. 

How did you find your way to your career path?

Honestly, by getting the degree and experience necessary to gain entry into higher education, as I had always hoped. From there, a hiring manager took a chance on me in 2005, and I have done my best not to let any of my employees or supervisors down ever since. This is my dream career in every sense of the term. 

What is your advice to new and/or continuing students?

My advice to all students is never be afraid to ask questions and get the support you need. We cannot help you work through an obstacle without knowing that an obstacle exists. Usually, a quick e-mail, phone call, or other form of notification goes a long way to bridge any communication gaps. We are here to help and I encourage anyone to reach out to me directly. My virtual door is always open.