SVC Criminology Videos

On Monday, three Criminology students attended a panel discussion in Pittsburgh with Dr. Daly. Presented by Reform, commentator and activist Van Jones, Representative Ed Gainey (D-East Liberty), criminal defense attorney Patrick Nightingale, and Patrick Purtill of the conservative nonprofit group, Faith and Freedom Coalition, discussed the issue of "smart probation" reform in Pennsylvania. Their work to support #HB1555 and #SB14 would change the lives of 700,000 people in the state. The students met Van Jones and the other speakers and met with the film crew and communications director who asked to come to Saint Vincent College the following day! They brought their wrapped tour bus for photos and open discussion about criminal justice reform, and Dr. Daly and some of the students were interviewed for the documentary! We were happy to welcome them to Saint Vincent, and we look forward to the opportunity to work with Reform in the future. The Pittsburgh City Paper covered the story (available here: https://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/cnn-anchor-van-jones-rep-ed-gainey-advocate-probation-reform-in-east-liberty/Content?oid=15867700). For more information about Reform, visit reformalliance.com or follow them on social media @ Reform.

On May 12, Dr. Jachimowski and Dr. Daly accompanied 12 graduate and undergraduate students on the inaugural Criminology study abroad trip to South Africa. Students visited two major cities, Johannesburg and Cape Town, to compare criminal justice practices, examine important historical influences, and learn more about South Africa’s rich cultural history. On this trip, students visited local townships, explored museums, had meals with people in the community, met with public defenders and magistrates, and heard lectures from Criminology professors. The students found the experience to be remarkable and even life-changing. When they weren’t learning about comparative criminal justice and South Africa, they were kissing lion cubs, petting a cheetah, visiting beaches, and trying new foods! There will be more CLS study abroad programs in the future, and they are open to current and former Saint Vincent College students. Contact Sandra Frye ([email protected]) for more information!

Meet the Criminology, Law, & Society faculty members! The four full-time professors in the CLS department are committed to: - providing a quality education to all students - ensuring their full understanding of the criminal justice system - explaining criminality and deviance - collaborating with students on research projects. Dr. Bruce Antkowiak is the chair of the department. He is a Saint Vincent College graduate (class of 1974) and a 1977 graduate of the Harvard Law School. His legal expertise provides students with a thorough understanding of the policies and practices of the criminal justice system. His professional experience as a defense attorney, a Federal Prosecutor, and a professor of law prepare students for successful law school experience and career. He teaches a number of legal courses including Criminal Law, Constitutional Criminal Procedure, and Legal Issues. ([email protected]) Dr. Eric J. Kocian studies the current opioid epidemic, particularly in Westmoreland County. Many students have worked with him on this important issue, and they have presented their findings to lawmakers, communities, and the FBI to inform effective policies. He teaches courses such as The Criminology of Firearms, Violence and Victimology, Addiction and Crime, and Ethical Dilemmas. ([email protected]) Dr. Kayla G. Jachimowski studies police responses to mental health calls for service. She also is an active member of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS), and she has published articles and books on important topics in criminology and criminal justice. She teaches courses including Statistics, Mental Health Issues in the Criminal Justice System, International Justice Comparatives, and Juvenile Justice. ([email protected]) Dr. Sarah E. Daly studies mass and active shootings, school violence, and the role of gender in understanding criminality. She recently published her book, Everyday School Violence: An Educator’s Guide t

African drumming lesson!