Determination and studious describe Mollie Mercado and her educational journey in receiving a Master of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Prior to enrolling at Purdue University Global, Ms. Mercado was waitlisted at two top law schools, and decided to seek a different educational journey. According to Mollie, “After doing research, I found Purdue Global to be ideal because it offered an opportunity to attend school online and attend a program that provided a little bit of everything in the field of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.”

Ms. Mercado's experience at the university was successful. The experience allowed her to connect with professors and peers. Mollie said, “It was a positive environment, and I could connect and make friends without missing the traditional university experience.” Specifically, Dr. Lannon was inspirational, and she was able to connect and gain a mentor. Although the experience was great, she had to use time management wisely and take comfort in support from her family. “A lot of time management, making time for myself, having my family support, and support from my employer to complete work and graduate was central.”

Mollie’s accomplishments following graduation are extraordinary:

• In the fall of 2021, she accepted a Security Operations Specialist position with Gucci.

• In 2022, she enrolled in a Doctor of Science program in Civil Security Leadership Management & Policy with a concentration in Active School Shooters at New Jersey City University.

• Additionally, in 2023, Ms. Mercado published articles in Homeland Security Affairs: Pracademic Affairs and in the FEMA Higher Education Quarterly Newsletter:

Mercado, M. (2023). Examining trends, impacts, drivers, and policy implications

of active school shooter incidents: A research overview. Homeland Security Affairs: Pracademic Affairs, 3(3), 1-13. www.hsaj.org/articles/22337 

Mercado, M. (2023). Policy review article 2: School resource

officers. FEMA Region 2 Higher Education Newsletter Quarterly, 2(3), 1-9. https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSFEMA/bulletins/378d00d?reqfrom=share

Join the Public Safety Department in congratulating Mollie Mercado on her continued success and accomplishments in the Homeland Security and Emergency Management field. 

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Zachary Beebe graduated in July of 2022 with his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice through the ExcelTrack Program.

According to Mr. Beebe, he was “under a time crunch and needed an institution where I could complete my degree based on my life. Purdue University Global was a convenient opportunity.” The ExcelTrack Program allowed him to complete his degree quickly through a self-paced program that was easy with responsive instructors. Mr. Beebe assumed there would be challenges, but it went well. Instead, “it was the opposite, super easy, and obtaining my degree was not delayed.”

During his time at Purdue Global, there were challenges. According to Mr. Beebe, the challenge was not knowing how soon he needed to complete his degree to be promoted. Once he received his degree, he discovered he had more time. Additionally, “balancing a full-time job, school, and my personal life was incredibly stressful, though the timelines I put on myself were the biggest stressor.” Although the challenges were present, his 17 years of experience working in a jail prepared him for the Excel Track Program, and he thoroughly enjoyed CJ227.

Join me in congratulating Mr. Zachary Beebe on receiving his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and being promoted to Administrative Sergeant with the Carver County Sheriff's Office in Minnesota.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Determination and fortitude describe Andrea Wooten and her educational journey in receiving her Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice.

Upon enrolling in the university, her concern was completing the program. In the words of Ms.Wooten, “I received the degree pretty fast, and the instructors understand the military.” Specifically, “Professor Kristi Pitts was amazing in her teaching, and Professor Robert Winters was great because he helped me pick a career.” Also, the course workload fit Ms. Wooten’s schedule. She continued to express that the course workload was not heavy, and she learned a lot. Ms. Wooten enjoyed meeting classmates through the discussion threads and seminar. Most importantly, the capstone course was ideal because she was able to write the resume that she is currently using.

Although the financial aspect of Purdue Global was affordable and transferring credits from the military was seamless, Ms. Wooten expressed that the challenge was moving through the curriculum. “As you move through the curriculum, it changed, and the professors wanted different things.” She plans on using the resume completed through the program to obtain employment once she leaves the military. In the words of Ms. Wooten, “getting this degree will help me better transition out of the military.”

Join me in congratulating Ms. Andrea Wooten on receiving her Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Jeremy Gonzalez graduated in November of 2021 with his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice through the ExcelTrack program.

“A traditional class would not work because of my family dynamics and a full-time job. Purdue Global was the best choice because the ExcelTrack program allowed me to manage work, family, and school.” Before coming to Purdue Global, Mr. Gonzalez believed obtaining a degree was not essential to his career in law enforcement. Nevertheless, after years of policing, he wanted to advance his career, so his lieutenant told him about his experience attending the Purdue University Criminal Justice program in Indiana. Consequently, Mr. Gonzalez came across an advertisement from PG and decided to enroll to complete his degree. 

There were challenges enrolling and starting college, but his wife was supportive in helping him complete his goal. Time management was important to Mr. Gonzalez, so he created a weekly schedule to complete his degree that involved taking advantage of his days off. “Once the ExcelTrack opened, I would complete a module a week by taking a day to conduct research and complete reading; while using the second day to focus on completing assignments.” Most importantly, the platform made his educational journal simple. “The assignments were straightforward, and the syllabus was set up well. Everything was laid out well to determine the management of my weekly schedule.” The motivation to complete his degree was due to family support and his determination to advance his career in criminal justice. 

Mr. Gonzalez works for Anne Arundel County Forensics Lab in Maryland as a Latent Print Examiner. Join me in congratulating Jeremy Gonzalez on receiving his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Jason McDonnell graduated in May 2023 with his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. “Choosing Purdue University Global was easy because the Excel Courses allowed me to attend college and work.”

Mr. McDonnell’s motivation to complete his degree was due to his wife, the agency’s support, and professors. Specifically, Professor Fulk was instrumental in being accessible to students on the Excel Track. In addition to support, his family, friends, and coworkers were gracious in providing their time for interviews. Interviewing criminal justice professionals allowed him to complete assignments and gain additional knowledge.

As a non-traditional student, it was challenging to maintain school and work. While in school, he

worked the graveyard shift as a police officer and worked diligently to complete his studies. According to McDonnell, the Excel Track courses were beneficial in allowing him to work and

complete his degree. 

As a result of completing his degree, he recently received a promotion to Corporal. In the words of Corporal McDonnell, “People in leadership use their knowledge and position to springboard others to success, and I want to help others to be successful.”

Join me in congratulating Corporal McDonnell on receiving his bachelor’s degree in Criminal

Justice.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Mr. Hector Gonzalez chose Purdue University Global because “it was one of the schools highly recommended to work with the military.” In June 2022, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Crime Scene Investigation.

For Mr. Gonzalez, the ability to be taught by faculty from different backgrounds, military experience, and instructors that share real-world examples was a benefit. Nevertheless, he worked to manage his time and remain motivated when his duties, impacted by world events in 2021-2022, challenged his time. To balance the military duties affected by world events, Mr. Gonzalez began reading ahead on Wednesday if there were no seminars on Wednesdays. Using this time to work ahead was beneficial in his educational journey.

Mr. Gonzalez was determined and focused on obtaining his degree. Currently, he works at Amazon as an Area Manager and is in the California National Guard. As an Area Manager, he ensures employees follow safety protocols and meet volume.

Join UGCJ in congratulating Mr. Gonzalez on completing his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Mr. Victor Villarreal graduated in June of 2022 with an AAS degree in Criminal Justice. After graduating, he returned to complete a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security.

"Choosing Purdue Global was a plausible choice because of his busy life.” For Mr. Villarreal, choosing the university allowed him to deploy and manage his life outside of work and school. During his enrollment in college, he encouraged his wife to attend and complete her degree. Recently, his wife graduated using his GI bill, and Mr. Villarreal was able to use his Tuition Assistant resources to complete his studies. According to Mr. Villarrreal, “Getting a degree in Criminal Justice will not only help me in my current job in the Army, but as well for future career settings. The knowledge I've learned from previous classes allowed me to integrate into my current career, such as learning more about the laws and such.” Although this was a great move for Mr. Villarreal, he had to understand the importance of time management. As such, he began keeping a schedule, as his wife advised him. Keeping track of time and writing down important tasks, caused him to do well and graduate.

The experience at Purdue Global has been great for Mr. Villarreal, and he encouraged his supervisor to enroll and complete his degree. Obtaining his degree from Purdue Global is important. Per Mr. Villarreal, “You need to develop inside and outside the military; a degree is needed in the military in order to promote and be competitive with your peers. Who will get the key leadership positions? They want to see those people who are developed.”

Join me in congratulating Mr. Villarreal on receiving an AAS degree in Criminal Justice and continuing his studies to receive a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice - Homeland Security.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

“My main goal when I began was to work my way slowly, feel out my classes and take it one step at a time.” Ms. Kyren Banks Saylor’s objective was to navigate the educational environment to complete her academic journey. In March of 2022, Ms. Saylor graduated with an AA degree in Criminal Justice.

As a non-traditional student, it was challenging to maintain school and military duty. While in school, she was a Military Police Investigator and worked diligently to complete her studies. According to Saylor, “I feel like the school allowed me to equally balance my full-time job and my studies. My expectations were exceeded.” Although there were challenges, Saylor used time-management techniques to review upcoming readings and assignments.

While balancing home and work, the university administration and instructors supported Saylor’s educational goal. Specifically, Professor Finley shared experiences that encouraged her to continue her education and obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology. Additionally, Saylor expressed that Purdue University Global provided her with the tools for promotion and valuable points for navigating her career journey.

Ms. Saylor is a student that is determined to continue her educational journey and encourage others. “My advice is to really focus on time management and realize you are a lot closer to the finish line than you think! Keep pushing.” Join UGCJ in congratulating Ms. Saylor on completing her AA degree in Criminal Justice.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Mrs. Alectxe Guerra graduated in June of 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a concentration in Crime Scene Investigation (CSI). After graduating, she returned to complete a certification in CSI by choosing to enroll in the Excel Track for ten weeks.

"Choosing Purdue University Global was a plausible choice because the options of an Excel Track and the Portfolio Assessment allowed me to complete college faster using less money.” Mrs. Guerra’s motivation to complete her degree was due to the reduced financial burden, and encouragement from her husband and daughter. The journey to complete the degree was quick due to the options provided. Specifically, Mrs. Guerra found that the Portfolio Assessment opportunity was the most beneficial because she worked in law enforcement for more than seven years; thus, having a program that turned her work experience into college credits was the most rewarding.

During Mrs. Guerra’s time at Purdue University Global, there were challenges. Nevertheless, she found that instructors were supportive when she broke her arm and needed time to complete assignments. Although this was difficult, she used all her free time to complete weekly reading and assignments. In the words of Mrs. Guerra, “I would definitely recommend Purdue! I am so glad I could finally finish with no pressure to attend class or lose much time.”

Join me in congratulating Mrs. Guerra on receiving her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration and certification in Crime Scene Investigation.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Shawn Patterson is a recent graduate of Purdue University Global in the Bachelor of Science in Fire Science degree program. Shawn, similar to many of our Purdue Global students, is a busy, active duty service member and father.

Shawn had this to say about his experiences at Purdue Global: “I am active duty and despite my wife pushing and supporting me in going back to school for the first 13 years of my military career, I fought back as to why I couldn't do it. I started to get serious about school in 2016.

I moved from Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras to Aviano Air Base Italy where I started going to school in person through the University of Maryland. While with them, I successfully accomplished all my core classes and completed my Community College of the Air Force Degree. During my last course with them, I found Purdue Global. Something in my heart told me this was where I was to go. Following my heart, I immediately started applying and working through the process of enrollment.. 

In 2019, I started classes with Purdue Global and over the next two years, I ruthlessly pursued classes. I woke up at 0200-0400 in the morning for seminars 2X/week (regardless of work schedule), and I continued classes through training courses (one of which was 3 weeks long). 

I saw my daughter graduate high school, assisted her and moved myself, wife, and son back to America, assisted with helping [my daughter] move to West Lafayette, IN to attend Purdue, and attended some more training courses for the Air Force while learning a new base, jurisdiction, and position, [while also] settling my family. While the road was not always easy, it was a journey worth pursuing. 

The instructors were all great, understanding, and assisted me through the adjustments of life! The [classes at PG] were all highly educational, interesting, and fun to be in. The greatest educational experience I think I’ve ever had! This is not to say struggles didn't occur. I struggled most with a research course, which I still passed with some extra persistence and work. 

Overall, I completed my Bachelors program with a 3.9 GPA in just under two years. The satisfaction I felt encouraged me to continue with my Masters Degree at Purdue Global! 

Hail Purdue!” 

We congratulate Shawn on his successes, and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

By Holli Vah Seliskar, Academic Department Chair, Public Safety Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences 

Persistence and fortitude describe Tyler Sasser and his educational journey in receiving his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Prior to enrolling in the university, his squad leader encouraged him to attend and complete his degree. Mr. Sasser stated, “I chose Purdue Global because they are very military-friendly. I have been on two deployments and in multiple time zones, and the university has stayed very flexible.” The flexibility and military-friendly atmosphere were most beneficial for Mr. Sasser.

Mr. Sasser experienced some highs and lows that made his educational journey successful. During his deployment, his wife and professors were a great support. Specifically, Roger Professor Humber, Professor Clifford March, and Professor Jerry Findley were instrumental in understanding his challenges while in the field and attending school. He recalled one of his professors allowing him to work ahead while he was in the field for 3 weeks. As a result of his great experience, Mr. Sasser encouraged his wife and one of his soldiers to attend Purdue University Global.

Mr. Sasser was a student who was determined to complete his studies and continue his educational goals. Currently, he is Active Duty-Military, 31 Bravo Military Police, and enrolled at Michigan State University in their Master’s program, studying Criminal Intelligence and Analysis. Join UGCJ in congratulating Mr. Tyler Sasser on this great accomplishment!

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Edward Kawamura graduated in November of 2021 with his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security.

"Choosing Purdue University Global was easy because the online platform allowed me to manage work, family, school, and complete the Sergeant Major Academy." Mr. Kawamura’s motivation to complete his degree was due to the support from his wife, the university staff, and instructors. Serving in active military duty, Mr. Kawamura expressed that his day consists of doing his schoolwork early in the morning or late at night to spend time with his family during the day. According to Mr. Kawamura, it worked for his family and his military career.

During Mr. Kawamura’s time at Purdue University Global, there were challenges. However, he found the seminar concept pivotal in providing real-time communication with instructors. Although he does not remember all his professors, each instructor shared some excellent tools in their teaching style and a fitting online personality that made the seminars exciting and attentive.

Join me in congratulating Mr. Kawamura on receiving his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Morganne Imes graduated in November of 2021 with her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Law Enforcement.

“Choosing Purdue University Global was easy because the online platform was simple and allowed me to manage work, family, and school compared to other online universities.” Her motivation to complete her degree was due to family support, the University Writing Center, and the online community of students and staff. Morganne shared that the user-friendly platform and having professors who are practitioners in the field is a plus because “they bring their real-world experience to the classroom.”  

During Morganne’s time at Purdue University Global, there were challenges. However, she found the seminar concept pivotal in providing real-time communication and understanding content and assignments.  Specifically, Professor Daniel Bilodeau shared his expertise and helped her transition her military career into the Office of Special Investigations. According to Morganne, having access to this knowledge provided students with insight into the criminal justice field and made the content enjoyable.

Join me in congratulating Ms. Morganne Imes on her new position with the United States Air Force and on completing her degree. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Olivia Hanna graduated in August of 2021 with her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security. She currently works as a Private Investigator with the Robinson Group. These skills were attained while attending Purdue University Global. Oliva expressed that Mr. Harry Navedo, her advisor, was instrumental and motivating her to locate employment while in school. As such, Oliva located employment as a private investigator and received many honors in her role with the investigating firm.

During her experience at Purdue University Global, there were challenges, but the professors and staff were great in helping and encouraging her to achieve her educational goal. Specifically, Professor Daniel Bilodeau was uplifting and explained that there are options in the Criminal Justice field. Oliva took this motivation from Professor Bilodeau and obtained a recent offer from the Peraton Group in Virginia as a Background Investigator for Homeland Security in the Airforce Department.

Join me in congratulating Ms. Olivia Hanna on her dream job and completing her degree. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Perseverance and determination describe Officer Joshua Lynch and his educational journey in receiving a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, with a concentration in Law Enforcement.

Prior to enrolling in college, Officer Lynch's feedback regarding Purdue University Global was positive, and the brand is renowned in the state of Indiana. Moreover, the admission advisor was pivotal in calming his fears, concerns, and self-doubt. As a result, Officer Lynch expressed, "the university changed my perception that college was not for me."

Officer Lynch experienced some highs and lows that made his educational journey successful. He expressed that Professor Tom Anderson is an instructor whose experience as a practitioner and academician was outstanding in teaching in an understandable method. Most importantly, Officer Lynch appreciated that Professor Anderson held a position at each level in law enforcement and was able to relate his experience in the classroom. Although his college journey was positive, COVID -19 caused challenges with work and attending school. To help him manage the turbulent time, the professors were understanding, and his family was a great support.

Before starting each term, Officer Lynch focused on getting into a routine and planned out his course work from the beginning to the end. He focused on accomplishing tasks 15 minutes to 1 hour each day. In the words of Officer Lynch, "having been a police officer for 19 years, I was able to learn valuable skills and information that has helped me perform better in all aspects of my job. Purdue University Global has been a great way to gain valuable education while working in the field and being active with my family."

He is a student that was determined to be a role model for his two high school sons to understand the importance of obtaining an education. Join UGCJ in congratulating Officer Joshua Lynch on this great accomplishment!

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Alanna Tabor graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice - Forensic Psychology. The motivation to complete her studies was due to her employer reimbursement program and Purdue University Global virtual platform. For Alanna, being a police officer working on the third shift, completing college was a goal but a challenge. However, understanding her employer's tuition reimbursement program and having instructors that understood her schedule as a police officer was ideal.

Alanna's work schedule is similar to nontraditional students at Purdue University Global. She expressed, "the professors were accommodating, and I kept them informed of my shift and job as a police officer." The instructors were engaged and responded quickly to her questions. Additionally, the platform was easy to navigate and complete assignments.

Nevertheless, there were challenges with time management and work-life balance. Alanna completed her school work, did her duties as a police officer on the third shift, cared for her three dogs (Winnie, Videl, and Daisy), and managed her home life. Her advice to other students is "not to procrastinate and find the drive to help you complete your educational journey."

Alanna is working toward completing a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology and looks forward to one day working as a detective in the sex-crimes unit. Join UGCJ in congratulating Officer Alanna on her accomplishment.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Wendy Marrero graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in August of 2021. She was self-motivated with the help of her employer paying school tuition and the virtual resources provided by Purdue University Global. Specifically, she expressed that the online platform is inclusive in creating an environment that students and instructors can communicate. In addition to the virtual environment, Wendy stated, "the weekly seminars allow students to ask questions and understand the course content."

Before attending Purdue Global, achieving her degree felt far, but enrolling in 2019 brought her closer to achieving her educational goal. Upon graduating with her undergraduate degree, Wendy encountered challenges, but her son, friends, and family's support were pivotal in attaining her goal. Most importantly, she expressed how important it was to focus on graduating. According to Wendy, "if I took one moment to think about what I was doing, I was not going to do it." She focused and pushed toward completing her degree, and her counselor Laura Thomas was amazing in helping guide her through the process.

Although she completed her Bachelor's degree, Wendy is returning to Purdue University Global to complete her Master's degree. Her goal is to work in the Juvenile Justice System and receive her Ph.D.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Reilly Franzen was determined to complete her degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology. Despite some challenges with time management, Reilly graduated in August 2021. As a non-traditional student, it was challenging to maintain school and employment. While in school, she was in the military and bartended on the side. Reilly expressed that the professors were instrumental in working with her to understand the challenges of school, work, and family for a non-traditional student.

Additionally, Reilly expressed that Purdue University Global understood how to manage and guide her through the process of obtaining her military benefits to attend college. Most importantly, the professors in the Criminal Justice program were friendly and supportive. They provided Reilly with the tools, instructions, and time to complete assignments and understand the content. Specifically, "the Criminal Justice professors are knowledgeable and point students in the right direction." 

Once Reilly understood her schedule and maintained a calendar to track assignments, it made obtaining her degree an achievable goal. In the end, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and is working with the National Guard and bartends. Her goal is to work in ballistics.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

"Do not wait, complete your education now" are the words echoed to Matthew Hom while serving in the military. Hence, he began his educational journey and was the first of six siblings to graduate college in August of 2021.

Matthew experienced some peaks and valleys that pushed him to complete his Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Criminal Justice during his journey. Specifically, Matthew explained that Purdue's University Global allowed him to use his military and leadership experience as credit toward his degree. As a result, he needed 12 courses to complete his BS degree. At this moment, Matthew was excited and prepared to complete his degree program. His future was bright, yet some journeys are met with surprises. For Matthew, he and his wife were excited to welcome a baby girl that was a beautiful addition to his family. At this moment, both he and his wife had to manage a new baby, family, work, and two college schedules. Yes, Matthew and his wife were both attending college. Time management and teamwork aided them in pushing through this time.

 While balancing home and work, Matthew encountered some great professors that provided guidance and mentorship along the way. Specifically, Professor Thomas Anderson was honest, transparent, provided mentorship, and allowed students to use him as a reference. As a seasoned person in the field, Matthew found the action of Professor Anderson to be selfless and beneficial for the youth in the class. In the words of Matthew, "As a professional who is experienced, it was good to see that instructors provide great insight and advice regarding the criminal justice field."

 Additionally, Mr. Hom found the admission office to be great with managing the paperwork he needed to pay for college. Using his GI Bill was a great benefit, but having a university that understood the process and documents made his process simple. Most importantly, his wife, family, and friends' support were outstanding. They provided him with encouragement and support as he completed his degree. Currently, Matthew is working with DHS/TSA as a Program Analyst in Enrollment Services & Vetting Programs (ESVP).

Join me in congratulating Mr. Hom for completing his degree program. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Roger McIntire was motivated and inspired to complete his college degree. In 2020, his employer discussed the importance of having a Bachelor’s degree to continue growing within the organization. The statement echoed by his employer was the driving force that propelled Roger to re-enroll in college. In July of 2021, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice.

According to Roger, “Purdue University Global is a military-friendly university that supports students who are on active duty.” Once he re-enrolled back into college, after taking a break for several years, he shared that the platform was simple to understand and navigate the online classroom. Most importantly, the professors in the Criminal

Justice Program were friendly and supportive. Specifically, Professor Clifford Marsh was instrumental in providing Roger with resources and explained APA style writing. For Roger, this one-on-one coaching and mentoring enabled him to thrive at Purdue University Global. 

Roger stated, “time was a challenge for me, but I finally chose to complete college and succeed.” Thus, he made college his priority and used time management skills to complete his course work. In the end, he built a foundation that helped legitimize his role as an Emergent Threat Training Facilitator with Booz Allen Hamilton. Roger works with law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels of government. He will continue pursuing his educational goals as he pursues his Project Management Professional Certification at Purdue Global University.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

According to the spouse of Jacqueline Mejia, she exemplified determination and dedication as she worked to obtain her Associate and Bachelor's Degree from Purdue University Global. In the words of Jacqueline, "the university is military friendly and provided me an opportunity to complete my degree online." As she searched for universities to complete her degree, Purdue University Global was listed in the top 10 that offered a degree in Criminology. Likewise, military friends and colleagues validated the benefits of her attending the university. Most importantly, during her Associate degree, she gained credits for all her electives and 38 credits during her Bachelor's degree.

Although her educational journey was full-steam ahead, she enjoyed the opportunities to obtain feedback on her resume and assignments. Specifically, she found the submission and feedback process for assignments to be exceptional. Additionally, seminars allowed her to ask questions and obtain additional insight on instructions. According to Jacqueline, professors were engaging and remained after class to answer questions. Although there were a wealth of positives and great experiences, she did encounter challenges.

During Jacqueline's Bachelor's degree, she took on the responsibility of a 2-week old foster child. The dynamics of caring for the 2-week old infant, working, and schoolwork were challenging. However, with the help of her spouse, they both use time management tools to manage their life. In the end, Jacqueline graduated and obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Psychology in June 2021. She will continue her education once she completes her military program. Jacqueline's educational objective is to obtain a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice, focusing in Forensic Psychology. We wish her all the best as she continues her military and educational journey.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Dedication, determination, and perseverance describe Jack Rutherfurd. Mr. Rutherfurd graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Law Enforcement. In completing his degree program, Jack had a plan to complete coursework and succeed in his studies. Each term, he was dedicated and determined to remain focused and persistent in accomplishing his goal.

Prior to attending Purdue University Global, his interest in the university was ignited when other military colleagues discussed the possibilities and platform of the university. What intrigued him the most was the ability to use his military work as credit toward his degree. As a result, he gained 59 credits toward his degree and transferred credits from his previous university. Jack put several credits toward his degree, which caused him to concentrate more on his degree study. Thus, he started in March of 2020 and graduated in June of 2021.

During his experience at Purdue University Global his wife had a huge impact. She supported and encouraged him to excel while working, attending school, and caring for his children. He also credits Professor Peggy Long, who was instrumental in ensuring his Criminal Justice courses were exciting and fun. Jack expressed how Professor Long would ensure students understood the content. For example, "If there was a question she did not have the answer to, she would investigate and come back with a response." Jack explained how this action was outstanding and encouraging.

In addition to Professor Long, the ability to have seminars once a week was amazing. Seminars helped him grasp content, assignments and ask questions. For Jack, it was a traditional university in a virtual platform. For him, no other university offered this quality of education. According to Jack, "when I first started online college before attending Purdue University Global, there was no other virtual university with this type of engaging interaction. The platform exceeded my expectations."

Jack is highly pleased with the university and expressed how his core courses will prepare him for his future career in law enforcement. Specifically, becoming a Specialist with the government. His goal is to work in Homeland Security at the state or federal level and one day teach at the collegiate level. Therefore, he continues his studies at university in the Master's program and looks to obtain a doctorate in Homeland Security. Currently, Mr. Rutherfurd is working for the Army with the Department of Emergency Services.

By Tomicka Williams, Assistant Academic Department Chair, Criminal Justice Department, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences