Get to know Norwich University’s School of Justice Studies and Sociology

School of

JUSTICE STUDIES AND

SOCIOLOGY

Norwich together, Norwich forever.

Welcome

to Norwich University’s School of Justice Studies and Sociology From Director W. Travis Morris and Associate Director Elizabeth Gurian: Our School has been placing professionals in Criminal Justice for over 40 years.

The School of Justice Studies and Sociology (SJSS) is comprised of nationally and internationally recognized faculty who are published scholars and excellent teachers.

We offer unique internships, research, and mentoring opportunities across the criminal justice spectrum.

Our graduates are leaders in their respective fields and continue to demonstrate excellence in all they do. Our curriculum and programs prepare our graduates to successfully confront the criminal justice challenges of the 21st century. This booklet affords you a quick glance of the opportunities that are before you.

To past, current, and prospective students: We, the faculty of SJSS, are given hope by the promise of your generation. We know you will implement what you learn during your time here at Norwich, to lead the way for criminal justice reform and constructive dialogue.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of that journey.

W. Travis Morris, PhD

Associate Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice Director, School of Justice Studies and Sociology Director, Peace and War Center

Elizabeth Gurian, PhD

Associate Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice Associate Director, School of Justice Studies and Sociology

Faculty Anne Buttimer, Lecturer in Criminal Justice William Clements, Professor of Criminal Justice Matthew Fischer, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Elizabeth Gurian, Associate Director of SJSS, and Associate Professor of Criminology & Criminal Justice Connie Hassett-Walker, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Min Li, Associate Professor of Sociology Stephanie Maass, Assistant Professor of Criminology & Criminal Justice Ben Maniscalco, Lecturer in Sociology Travis Morris, Director of SJSS, and Associate Professor of Criminology & Criminal Justice David Sem, CJ Internship Coordinator and Adjunct Faculty in Criminal Justice Penny Shtull, Professor of Criminal Justice Rob VandenBerg, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Aimee Vieira, Professor of Sociology

Adjunct Faculty: Angela Baker, Criminal Justice Kate Brayton, Criminal Justice Lisa Chalidze, Criminal Justice Kristin Chandler, Criminal Justice Allison Crowson, Criminal Justice James Dalton, Criminal Justice Kevin Doyle, Criminal Justice Steven Hrotic, Sociology Duane Tompkins, Criminal Justice Laura Zeliger, Criminal Justice

The many opportunities made available through Norwich have led me to pursue my interests that will contribute to my future career goals. —Hannah Mendez Rockwood ’21, B.S. in Environmental Science and Psychology, Criminology minor, College of Liberal Arts Board of Fellows Award recipient

The School of Justice Studies and Sociology (SJSS) Delivers the Best of Norwich University The School of Justice Studies and Sociology offers the hallmarks of a Norwich education: • • • •

Interactive experiences that immerse students in real-world challenges and the search for solutions An international vision with study-abroad options and multicultural perspectives Faculty engaged in cutting-edge research who are outstanding mentors Alumni connections that introduce students to internships, career opportunities and mentorships

Norwich students in the School of Justice Studies and Sociology learn and grow from an interdisciplinary focus that inspires them to analyze information and ask questions, respect others’ opinions, take calculated risks, and build the teamwork, critical-thinking and communication skills they will need to stand out in their field.

To reflect the pressing environmental problems around the world amidst a growing global interconnectedness, we are broadening the SJSS curriculum with courses in environmental criminology and crime/law enforcement intelligence.

“As a critical rural sociologist, my scholarship focuses in on rural populations and the spatial dimensions of opportunity, especially as they pertain to marginalized groups, including linguistic minorities, racialized minorities, and migrants.

My work has contributed to reformulations of U.S. federal immigration policy, as well as to local economic development issues in the U.S. and Canada. Students in my classes learn to drill down into data to analyze local issues, while applying a critical lens and situating the local in larger regional, national, and international contexts.”

— Aimee Vieira, PhD, Professor of Sociology

“A Norwich education extends far beyond the classroom, and the SJSS is the preeminent example of a department focused on developing students through interactive and collaborative methods.”

— Tim Weinhold ’18, Norwich Cadet Colonel, B.A. Criminal Justice; ’19, M.A. Diplomacy ~ Special agent, Office of Special Investigations, U.S. Air Force

A Rigorous Education Prepares Students to Make an Impact The SJSS Bachelor of Arts criminal justice program is the most popular major at Norwich, largely because of our reputation as a leader in the field and student commitment to public service.

• Minors in sociology, criminal justice, criminology, transnational crime, and cybercrime and computer forensics • Concentrations in criminology and victimology • An online Master of Science program in criminal justice, which includes a weeklong residency on our campus Students work with faculty whose diverse expertise is highly respected in their field. Our course selection reflects professors’ strong connections with local, state and national law enforcement agencies and corrections organizations and their evolving needs.

Whatever career SJSS students choose in the military or as a civilian, we inspire in them a commitment of service to country and community and instill the disciplined focus and persistence that sets them up to excel.

“At Norwich, I gained the personal drive that continues to propel me forward to advocate for social justice and equity for the marginalized and oppressed. The value of service to others that is at the heart of Norwich University is what has remained the foundation of my professional goals.”

— Mariah Howard Spindle ’14, B.A. Criminal Justice, Psychology minor ~ Behavioral Health Specialist, Jail Diversion Program, Fairfax-Falls Church (Virginia) Community Services Board Are you a student or parent interested in learning more about our criminal justice program?

Go to https://www.norwich.edu/admissions to schedule a virtual tour or campus visit, or contact admissions@norwich.edu

“At Norwich, I was pushed and challenged in ways I never thought were possible, and that has made me into the man I am today. I am forever grateful to have had the college experience I had because I feel prepared to enter into my career of helping others.”

— Brandon Milburn ’20, B.A., Criminal Justice ~ Military Police Officer, New Jersey Army National Guard

A Relevant, Nationally Recognized Program Amid the backdrop of national and international discussions about law enforcement reform, graduates from our nationally known criminal justice program will have a role in shaping new policies and procedures for the field.

“At every level of law enforcement, there will be Norwich graduates involved in discussions about the future of law enforcement…You’ll find Norwich alumni discussing positive changes to law enforcement activities.

Their impact will be there.”

— Scott Shelton ’97, B.A. Criminal Justice and Political Science, Department of Homeland Security, Norwich Board of Fellows (alumni advisory board) chairperson Our innovative curriculum includes courses in key focus areas, including: • • • •

Comparative criminal justice systems Criminal and procedural law Criminal violence Homeland security

• Restorative justice • Terrorism • Transnational crime • Victimology

The program’s interdisciplinary approach cultivates students with a well-rounded perspective who graduate ready to distinguish themselves in the evolving criminal justice field.

“My criminal justice degree is relevant in the world and workplace of today because our justice system is always changing, and with my degree I can help with those changes to bring justice back into the court system.”

— Victoria Cortes-Davis ’20, B.A. Criminal Justice, Sociology minor

Want to know more about SJSS and our criminal justice program?

Visit https://www.norwich.edu/programs/criminal-justice

“The SJSS has provided me with a vast array of knowledge throughout my years at Norwich University. As a part of the valuable education I received, I had the opportunity to visit law enforcement agencies, practice interviewing techniques, write case briefs, and even analyze terrorist propaganda. These experiences have built a strong foundation for me going into a career in law enforcement and intelligence, and I couldn’t have asked for a better team of faculty to get me there.”

— Aleia Manning ’20, B.A. Criminal Justice, Transnational Crime minor

Faculty Stand Out as Teachers, Mentors and Scholars One vital component that distinguishes the Norwich criminal justice program is the faculty. Norwich professors are highly regarded in their fields and are leaders in national, regional and state organizations. They have been featured in local, state and national media reports and have received prestigious teaching and mentoring awards.

Our professors also write books and present at conferences, yet they always maintain sight of their most important role — to teach and mentor students, with whom they share their scholarship and engage in research.

Much of the faculty’s scholarship is supported by grants, fellowships and other professional development funding from Norwich. Professors’ award-winning scholarship examines diverse aspects of the criminal justice field, including: • Adjudication and outcomes for mass and serial murderers • Comparative criminal justice • Correctional reentry programs

• Policing • Probation best practices • Violence on American college campuses

• Counterterrorism

“My scholarship informs criminal justice practice, policies and programs locally and nationally. I incorporate it into my classroom — examples of how research is done, how it can impact the practice…

It helps me to make the classroom intellectually stimulating, relevant and topical for my students.”

— Penny Shtull, PhD, Professor of Criminal Justice

“My research looks at the trust relationship between the police and the public and the public’s motivations for cooperating with the police.

Given that many of our students will become the law enforcement officers and leaders of tomorrow, I love bringing this research into the classroom because it focuses students’ attention on the challenges and opportunities for policing in a free and democratic society that naturally leads to a discussion about police policy and reform.”

— Matthew Fischer, PhD, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice

Interactive, Real-World Experiences: CSI Competition, Internships, Field Studies Criminal justice students engage in immersive interactive opportunities, including: • • • •

Trips to network with alumni at federal agencies in Boston and Washington, D.C. Internships with federal and state law enforcement agencies and the highly selective FBI internship Excursions overseas to advance their global knowledge and experience different cultures directly Presenting their research at national conferences

The Washington, D.C., and Boston trips include meeting with Norwich alumni and other officials at the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, FBI, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Supreme Court and other offices. Students have participated in an emergency response simulations at the Boston Emergency Operations Center. In Washington, students have heard presentations about the security priorities of federal agencies and national efforts to address the opioid crisis and human trafficking. The Criminal Justice Student Association and the Criminal Justice Honor Society are involved with planning a Washington, D.C. trip each year.

A signature feature of the criminal justice program is the annual Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Experience, in which students work with alumni in criminal justice fields and build skills in teamwork, critical thinking, analysis and communication. Interdisciplinary teams of students investigate a hypothetical crime, mentored by alumni and regional practitioners in the field who could potentially be future employers.

“My research focuses on social determinants of health among diverse population groups including racial/ethnic minorities and people with disabilities. Teaching affords me the opportunity to engage students to share cultural experiences, social values, and awareness for social justice. My goal is to promote equal access to quality of healthcare and to improve quality of life for all through my teaching and scholarly work.”

— Min Li, PhD, Associate Professor of Sociology

“Students asked excellent questions that impressed the presenters…Students seemed to have a passion to learn and a desire to be successful in the future. I can envision all of them succeeding after graduation.”

— Meghan Kennedy ’12, B.A. Political Science; M.A. Public Administration U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Board of Fellows member ~ in reference to a Norwich student trip to Washington, D.C.

Student Research Offers Intensive Career-Preparation Opportunities Many students engage in research projects or assist with faculty research and then may present their research at national conferences. Some students also have had their research published in academic journals. They develop analytical and public-speaking skills and deepen their knowledge of important issues in criminal justice.

Students also take advantage of research-focused internships with agencies.

“My summer research project with Professor Elizabeth Gurian was one of the best experiences of both my academic and personal life. It taught me a lot about not just criminal justice but also discipline, hard work and dedication…It also taught me how to think more critically, which is important in the field I work in.”

— Tory Kethro ’15, B.A. ~ Kethro researched the effects of how crimes are labeled on sentencing, focusing on cases that involved multiple murders. She presented her research at a conference in Orlando, Florida.

“Norwich students have a lot of curiosity and the ability to direct their questions into practical research experiences. As researchers, there is sometimes the tendency to accept concepts as a given, and it’s refreshing to have students ask, ‘Why’?”

— Elizabeth Gurian, PhD ~ SJSS Associate Director and Associate Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice

For more about interactive experiences, internships and research opportunities for students, contact inielsen@norwich.edu.

www.norwich.edu/undergraduate-research

“I have solid research partnerships with several criminal justice agencies in Vermont, so students in my senior seminar classes have the opportunity to work with these agencies on original research projects that directly benefit the agency, are of great interest to the students, and give them actual research experience they can put on their resumes.� — Stephanie Maass, PhD, Assistant Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice

Our Perspective, and Our Impact, Are Global Presenting a global perspective to criminal justice students is a core value of our program and the SJSS. We do this in multiple ways: • Study-abroad options, with criminal justice-specific programs in China, Ireland and the U.S. Virgin Islands and independent study in other countries.

• Shorter faculty-led cultural immersion trips abroad to study issues in other countries.

• Partnerships with the Norwich University Peace and War Center to create unique learning opportunities for students.

• Faculty members with academic backgrounds and scholarship records with diverse international experiences that they bring to their teaching.

• Internationally-focused courses, such as comparative criminal justice systems, transnational crime and terrorism.

“Being a Criminal Justice major has allowed me to diversify my courses to have a more well-rounded perspective. I have accumulated over 300 hours in community service at Norwich by helping at the Veterans Place and feeding the homeless, as well as assisting in days of service, blood drives, food drives, Rotaract events, and Mayo Ball.” ­­—Alexis “Fergie” C. Ferguson ’21, B.A. Criminal Justice, David L. Anderson Memorial Award recipient

Study Criminal Justice and Sociology in the Virgin Islands Are you ready for a unique academic experience in a tropical paradise? The School of Justice Studies has developed a partnership with the University of the Virgin Islands, a historically-black college on the Caribbean island of St. Croix. You are invited to join a cohort of your fellow Norwich students on a semester-long adventure of study in the Fall or Spring semester.

As part of the Norwich Expedition to St. Croix, you will have an opportunity to interact with students of a different cultural background while taking courses in your major. This program offers courses and experiences that will expand your cultural literacy and build skills that will equip you for your future career.

“My experience at the University of the Virgin Islands was very educational. I’ve gained so much knowledge not just about the Criminal Justice System, but also about myself.

One of the courses I took there was Corrections, which teaches you how to deal with correctional facilities. This class was an eye-opener and because of this, I am working on pursuing a career in corrections.”

— Anissa Powell ’21, B.A. Criminal Justice, Cross-Cultural Psychology and Sociology minor

Invaluable Alumni Connections for Students and Graduates Norwich alumni generously give back to the university by working with SJSS to develop rich learning experiences while also mentoring students and young graduates. Helping to plan and participating in the CSI Experience and trips to Boston and Washington, D.C., and organizing networking events with students are among the ways they share their expertise.

These connections can help students solidify the careers they want to pursue and provide a prospective pool of skilled, motivated workers for employers.

“Learning experiences that connect our criminal justice students with our alumni provide a level of growth that is unmatched…

There is something special about our alumni’s willingness to help students make good decisions to achieve a similar level of success.”

— David Sem, Norwich Criminal Justice Internship Coordinator

“I connected with alumni from all over the world in my time at Norwich through all the different events which were held through the years.”

— Ryan Pellath ’20, B.A. Criminal Justice ~ Enforcement Officer, U.S. Coast Guard

“Norwich is everywhere in the justice community…You can’t turn around without running into a Norwich alum.

And it doesn’t matter if you went to Norwich at the same time or never met before, you walk in the door with a higher expectation and credibility as an alum. All you have to say is, ‘Hey, I’m Matt, class of ’98, and you are in the door.”

— Matthew Romei ’98, B.A. Criminal Justice ~ Chief of Police, Vermont Capitol Police

Graduates Make Their Mark in the World Criminal justice graduates leave Norwich prepared to distinguish themselves in their careers and excel in graduate school. They have stood out in law enforcement in addressing the opioid crisis. They have achieved high-level positions in the FBI fighting terrorism. They serve with distinction as commissioned military officers and are leaders in the fields of corrections, probation and parole, law and other fields.

“Norwich empowers students with the leadership skills they need whether they’re federal agents, local law enforcement or attorneys.”

— Col. Jayson Altieri ’89, B.A. Criminal Justice, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) ~ Professor, Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base and Norwich Board of Fellows member As a strategic planner with the 82nd Airborne Division in Afghanistan, Jayson drew from his Norwich criminal justice education. Working with the U.S. State Department, other federal agencies and Afghan officials in 2010 and 2011, he helped identify corrupt police officials and re-establish courts and judges to reform law enforcement and the legal system. “Criminal justice is more than handcuffs and Miranda rights. It is a practical application of how to create stability in a society and have the buy-in of the community,” he says.

“Norwich University graduates have added to our agency on a number of levels, from basic law enforcement duties and community outreach as troopers to high-ranking commanders of the state police that develop policy, procedure, culture and training that guide the Vermont State Police (VSP). I’ve been most impressed by the sense of community and service that NU grads exude in their positions with VSP. They are true public servants who are disciplined, dedicated and compassionate.”

— Lt. Steven Coote, Vermont State Police Interested in learning more about our criminal justice program?

Go to https://www.norwich.edu/admissions/visit to schedule a virtual tour or campus visit, or contact admissions@norwich.edu.

“Norwich graduates have had a significant impact on our organization as a result of their contributions and work ethic…

Through both formal and informal leadership positions, they have built relationships with our community members and helped foster trust in our department. Many of our Norwich graduates have received special recognition both inside and outside our department for their outstanding work.”

— Police Chief Bradley Osgood, Concord (New Hampshire) Police Department

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