College of Criminal Justice – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

Bridging Academia and Real-World Experience at SHSU

In our four years at Sam Houston State University, we have had many opportunities to attend conferences. And, perhaps unusually, we have also had the opportunity to present at conferences, and one of those opportunities arose late this semester–two weeks prior to our graduation!

Our presentation, alongside Dean Lyons and Associate Dean Boisvert, was to highlight the many ways that SHSU, the College of Criminal Justice, and the LEAP Center help bridge the gap between academia and the “real-world.”

While the Deans ably handled high-level things such as state mandates, trends in higher education, and challenges faced across the educational industry, we offered an overview of some of the ways that this curricular “bridge” has helped us participate in and transition to the workplace.

This included discussions of things we experience in the classroom, such as police simulations; internship opportunities we have had in and outside of our fields of study; travel opportunities we have enjoyed; and the community service in which we have engaged. This approach was taken to demonstrate that, in a world where a career lattice (rather than career ladder) is likely, it’s important to have broad and well-rounded skills rather than narrow and inflexible skills.

It was a pleasure to have this opportunity–and especially together–as we approach our graduation. As fellow Criminal Justice majors with an assortment of minors, and as former SHAIP interns, and as students very active in the LEAP program, it was a pleasure to share some of our experiences with Dean Lyons and Associate Dean Danielle Boisvert…

…in front of many of the leading professionals in the correctional-legal field.

Building Future Leaders: Lessons from TX Supreme Court Justice James Sullivan

One of the advantages of attending SHSU is the opportunities afforded by the College of Criminal Justice, whose activities continue deep into the semester and even the summer. And so it was we found ourselves at lunch with 74 professionals from the legal and corrections community across the state of Texas–while listening to Texas Supreme Court Justice James Sullivan.

After an introduction by TDCJ General Counsel Stephanie Greger…

…Justice Sullivan highlighted five keys to leading teams of public servants.

Hire people smarter than you;
Grow a coaching tree;
Lead from the front;
Show people you care;
Build resilience.

He offered examples from his career, which he often shared tinged with traces of humor and a lot of common sense. He described his career as a government attorney and noted that while he didn’t earn as much as his private-practice counterparts (his wife, he says, “funds my government attorney hobby”), he was part of a team that produced successful leaders. This involves, he noted, disruption: good attorneys come in and work for the state; after a couple of years, they get better offers; and they move on to higher-paying jobs with greater influence. This creates turnover, but it is a product of a good strategy: hiring good people. And while those people leave eventually, they become coaches in their own spheres of influence, producing leaders that go on to serve.

Sullivan’s audience was on hand at SHSU to attend the Texas Criminal Justice Legal Conference, where leading practitioners were present to collaborate, think, and act to make Texas a better place. There were numerous attorneys present, including our friend Jack Choate and his excellent staff, and some new people we met, such as Rachelle White, Chief of Staff for TDCJ; Sean Groves, Deputy Executive Director of Texas Juvenile Justice; Eric Nichols, attorney at Butler Snow and Chairman of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice; and Wyvonne Long, Director of TDCJ Independent Office of Inmate Counsel. In short, there were a lot of people present from whom we could learn.

And learn we did! Between the conversations at the table and in the room, and the presentation by Justice Sullivan, we were exposed not only to tips for managing public servants, but also to the many careers in the law that also allow for public service.

Transforming Criminal Justice Education at HSCJIT 2025

There are times when the fields of political science and criminal justice intersect. Today was the case for such an event when Professor Mike Yawn, the director of SHSU’s LEAP Center, was asked to present to the High School Criminal Justice Instructor Training (HSCJIT) Conference held annually on SHSU’s campus and sponsored by the University’s excellent College of Criminal Justice and organized by the wonderful Doris Pratt.

Designed for high-school teachers in the fields of criminal justice, law enforcement, and forensic science, the conference features presentations by experts in myriad disciplines, including: criminal investigations, victimology, forensic DNA, cybercrime, forensic psychology, corrections, and serial murder.

Indeed, Yawn’s session came on the heels of Dr. Mitchel Roth…

…who discussed his research on serial murderers…

…and, following a 15 minute break, Yawn discussed the interdisciplinary use of technology, with an emphasis on first responders.

Covering topics such as smart businesses, smart health devices, smart cities, and Real Time Response Centers, Yawn presented for approximately half-an hour to the 40-plus educators present.

The audience was polite and managed to stay awake (!) during Yawn’s presentation, which involved how technology can be used across major sectors of contemporary life. From ALPRs tracking our vehicles’ movements to the facial recognition of animals so that lost pets can be found.

The teachers really came alive, however, when the Arson and Explosive Squad of the Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office came out to describe their jobs. The “bomb squad,” as they typically known, are licensed police officers–Darren Parker and Blaine Pyles–who specialize in explosives and arson.

Their work can take them to political events, where much explosive-sweeping is required, to large sporting events, to hostage situations and, of course, arson.

They have various equipment to assist with this, including separate robotic assistants, battering rams, state-of-the-art communications, drones, and more. The robotics were the hit of the show…

…but so were the bomb technicians, Parker and Pyles, who approach their job in the spirit of service, with courage, compassion, and competence, qualities on display throughout their presentation.

Indeed, following the event, many of the educators, Professor Yawn, and Parker and Pyles discussed future opportunities for collaboration–a way to benefit the public, higher education, and K-12, a win-win-win.

Many thanks to the College of Criminal Justice (and Ms. Doris Pratt), Darren Parker and Blaine Pyles, and the many high-school educators–all of whom are shaping the next generation of leaders.

The LEAP Center would like to thank LEAP Ambassadors Michelle Moya and Olivia Discon, who stepped up for this event; LEAP Center student worker Gabila Flores, who helped with photos and the blog; and volunteers Bailey Hopkins, Jacob Wessels, and Sofia Soto.

Understanding the Legal Process: Insights from a LEAP/COCJ Collaboration

by Chrissy Biello

The Sam Houston State University Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics recently partnered with the SHSU Criminal Justice Department to host a CJ Real Talk event. With approximately 50 students in attendance and moderated by Professor Mike Yawn, the panel featured Montgomery County Chief Prosecutor Darla Faulkner, retired Lieutenant Criminal Investigator for Harris County Paul Smithers, and 12th District Court Judge David Moorman.

Professor Yawn structured the discussion chronologically, guiding the panelists through the legal process from the moment a crime is committed to when it reaches a judge’s docket. To set the stage, he introduced a hypothetical scenario in which a Sam Houston student is caught drinking and driving, registering a blood alcohol concentration of 0.12, which is above the legal limit of 0.08.

The conversation began with Investigator Smithers, who explained the circumstances under which an officer could pull the student over. He noted that probable cause is required to initiate a traffic stop. If the officer administers field sobriety tests, the next steps depend on the county’s policies.

In Harris County, for example, officers must contact a district attorney, provide all relevant details, and obtain approval before filing a charge for driving while intoxicated.

As the case progresses, investigators remain actively involved. When asked about her collaboration with criminal investigators, ADA Faulkner emphasized the close working relationship between prosecutors and investigators.

Smithers elaborated, comparing the dynamic to that of a married couple. Investigators, he explained, are responsible for gathering all available evidence and ensuring no crucial details are overlooked. Their role is to present a complete case during discovery so that defendants receive a fair trial.

When asked what factors could influence a case, Faulkner stressed the importance of mitigation evidence. She explained that defense attorneys should present information that humanizes their clients, such as testimony about their family life, employment, or community involvement.

These factors, she noted, can significantly impact the district attorney’s decision on whether to offer a plea deal. Faulkner further emphasized that many ordinary individuals receive DUI charges, and understanding their personal circumstances can shape the outcome of their cases.

Judge Moorman was then asked whether he had ever defended a DUI case while practicing law and what advice he would offer a student defendant.

He responded that he would begin by looking at the student’s academic record and community involvement, as prosecutors often focus solely on the risks posed by the defendant’s actions. Highlighting positive character traits could help, but he cautioned that students must take responsibility for their actions and avoid making the situation worse by repeating their mistakes.

The discussion then turned to last-minute developments during trials. Investigator Smithers explained that unexpected evidence can surface, requiring investigators to act quickly to obtain necessary documents or verify new information.

This, he said, is why district attorney investigators must be present in court; they need to assist prosecutors in real time. He emphasized that when prosecutors are in trial, investigators are actively involved as well. Professor Yawn humorously added that he had once been told that if a prosecutor asked an investigator to procure a goat for a closing argument, the only acceptable response would be, “What color eyes should the goat have?”

During the Q&A session, many students took the opportunity to ask a question, including one about common misconceptions in the courtroom. ADA Faulkner addressed a prevalent myth about prosecutors: that they must secure a certain number of convictions to meet a quota. She clarified that her duty is to ensure justice is served, whether through dismissals, pre-trial diversions, fines, or other resolutions.

With strong student participation and insightful discussions from the panelists, the Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics was proud to work with the always-wonderful Doris Pratt and the SHSU Criminal Justice Department.

For those interested in similar opportunities, the Texas Tenth Court of Appeals will be visiting Sam Houston State University on April 16 in the CJ Courtroom. Cases will be heard at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 1:30 p.m.

ALPR at ACJS: More Crime and Punishment in Denver

by Olivia Discon

After months of compiling data, conducting interviews, and researching, Professor Yawn, Chrissy, and I finally had the opportunity to present our work at the ACJS Conference in Denver, CO. This experience was unlike anything I’d encountered before, and presenting research at an academic conference as an undergraduate was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking.

So, what is our research about? In short, our group is examining the implementation of police technology in home-rule cities across Texas. Contrary to common perception, innovation in cities isn’t driven by a single department, organization, or state entity. Instead, it emerges from a complex interplay of governance. Our primary focus is on Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs), which rapidly scan license plates to aid in crime prevention. From a policy perspective, ALPRs are particularly interesting because they raise important questions about efficiency, privacy, and local governance.

Professor Yawn, who chaired the panel, led the presentation. As the primary researcher on this project, he has created an incredible opportunity for Chrissy and me to contribute meaningfully to the work.

While we still have a way to go before we “reach saturation” in our research, presenting at ACJS and receiving feedback from an engaged audience was invaluable.

Chrissy, who spearheaded our quantitative data collection, presented the methodology and preliminary findings. She did an excellent job of breaking down the statistical nuances and translating them into clear, digestible insights for us common folk.

Our session also featured a presentation from Tiffin University (TU), where undergraduates Zaria Moore…

…and Lauren Swartzlander…

…shared their public health study on mental health and alternative treatments.

They pursued this research voluntarily with strong mentorship support from TU faculty.

After both presentations, we engaged in a Q&A session with the audience…

…whose thoughtful questions and feedback left us excited to refine and expand our work further.

Safety, Crime, and Health in Urban Spaces

After our presentation, we attended another fascinating session on urban crime patterns and community development. One standout presentation came from Lauren Perron of Temple University, who examined agency collaboration in response to opioid use disorder.

She explored how organizational structure, leadership, and policy decisions impact the outcomes of the opioid crisis, particularly in the context of steering committees.

My favorite presentation of the session was Broken Windows in the Age of Big Data, which focused on Graffiti-Free NYC, a program led by the New York Sanitation Department. The study examined the correlation between quality-of-life indicators—such as graffiti removal and cleanliness—and crime rates.

While perceptions of crime can be subjective, this research provided compelling data-driven correlations that reinforced the impact of environmental factors on urban safety.

Chrissy’s favorite session was Policing the Opioid Crisis, which analyzed police-led deflection programs in Plymouth County, Massachusetts.

This case study, conducted by Professor Sean Verano and student Niki Poutre, explored the effectiveness of these programs in helping individuals struggling with addiction and how police officers ranked the anticipated success of different approaches.

One particularly striking finding was that while deflection programs increased the odds of relapse, they did not significantly impact fatal overdoses.

This session was our favorite of the conference—not just because we could finally relax after our own presentation, but because the discussions were incredibly thought-provoking. The insights we gained from these panels will undoubtedly inform our research moving forward.

Presenting at ACJS was a milestone experience, giving us the chance to engage with experts in the field, refine our work, and gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of crime, policing, and policy implementation.

Dinner at Le French

by Chrissy Biello

Feeling the weight lifted off our shoulders, we headed to Le French for dinner. Founded by Senegalese-French sisters Aminata Dia and Rougui Dia, Le French is known for its combination of many worldwide influences and modern French cuisine. As semifinalists for the James Beard Best Chef in the Mountain Region in 2024, the Dia sisters have brought their culinary expertise to the forefront, making this dining experience even more exciting.

Through LEAP, my peers and I have had the unique opportunity to dine at James Beard-nominated and award-winning restaurants, and this was another highly anticipated experience for Olivia and me. Having not eaten much due to nerves, we were more than ready to indulge in what promised to be a great meal after a long day.

With little experience in French cuisine, Olivia and I found many menu items intriguing. To sample a variety of dishes, Olivia opted for the prix fixe menu. For her starter, she chose French Onion Soup, a dish she had never tried before.

When it arrived, she was thrilled with her choice. Not only did she enjoy a new experience, but she also discovered a dish she truly liked.

Professor Yawn and Stephanie ordered the escargot as their appetizer, and they were equally pleased with their selection.

For our main courses, I ordered the Saumon Fumé Savory Crepe, Olivia got the Suprême de Poulet Sauce Champagne (chicken breast with champagne sauce), Professor Yawn chose the Colorado Bass et Plantains, and Stephanie decided on the French Onion Soup.

When our meals arrived, we were all delighted with our choices. In true LEAP fashion, we made sure to sample each other’s dishes. Every selection turned out to be excellent, giving us a variety of flavors to experience.

For dessert, Olivia had the Panna Cotta, a dish featuring hibiscus, citrus, and marmalade berries. This was another first for her. Additionally, we shared a crème brûlée as a table.

It was a day full of firsts, from trying great new foods to presenting at our first academic conference. Nevertheless, we are especially grateful for the guidance of Professor Yawn and Stephanie. Their insights and encouragement, even their lighthearted stories to ease our nerves, were invaluable and something we could not have found elsewhere.

The Yard Milkshake Bar

Later in the night, after doing some laundry, Olivia and I walked to The Yard Milkshake Bar for another sweet treat. I chose the Cookies and Cream Cheesecake milkshake, while Olivia went for the Cake Batter milkshake. Both were delicious and well worth the walk from our hotel.

With the stress behind us, we are excited to continue our trip, filled with fun, learning, and new experiences.

CJ Real Talk Series: Emergency Management

The College of Criminal Justice works to connect alumni and students in meaningful ways, including their “Real Talk” program. This program brings alumni to campus to meet and speak with students, while highlighting the alum’s current job. Last week, the featured speaker was Adam Lee, who received his master’s degree in Homeland Security from SHSU, and he spoke about the ever-growing importance of emergency management and how students can enter that line of work. (You can watch the program here.)

Student Engagement & Retention Specialist Luke Putman Introduces SHSU Alum Adam Lee

Lee currently works for Memorial Hermann Health System as the Director of Emergency Management and Organizational Resilience but has experience with the public sector of security. His experience includes working as Assistant Emergency Management Coordinator for League City, TX (a position he held in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey) and for SouthEast Texas Regional Advisory Council (SETRAC). He held the latter position when COVID descended upon the world.

While both of these emergencies were, in some sense unprecedented, the larger lesson is that emergencies, almost by definition, occur unexpectedly. Even when such events are expected, they may have unexpected outcomes or arrive in an unexpected scale. So, planners and responders will always be needed, and that is especially true in Texas.

Currently, Lee works for Memorial Hermann, and in this role he has focused on a new type of threat: cyberattacks. When you think of the technology that goes into hospital, and the pressing and urgent role they play in keeping people alive, it takes little imagination to think of what a power outage or wide-scale hacking episode could do to a hospital.

Whatever one’s goals within the field of emergency planning and security, Lee suggests networking (such as attending University events!) and education. Unlike much in the world today, the field of emergency planning has a real need for generalists or, as he said, “knowledge a mile wide and an inch deep” and to be a lifelong learner.

Lee threw out the names of free and inexpensive learning tools for emergency preparedness such as PreparingTexas.org and the Center Domestic Preparedness to increase your education. CourseRa also has free (or low cost) emergency management as well, and of course CJ has many courses that will benefit a student looking to enter this field.

And, true to his own advice, he stayed around after–sharing his knowledge and networks with students.

Real Talk About Game Wardens: College of CRIJ

The College of Criminal Justice hosts numerous events promoting education, employment, and professional networks for their students. One of those is their regular “Real Talk with CJ” event, in which SHSU Alumni come in to discuss their careers, to provide advice, and to strengthen the relationship between alumni, faculty, staff, and students. On November 2, the “Real Talk” involved Forrest Price returning to campus to discuss his career as a game warden.

Approximately 40 students showed up for the event, and they gave Mr. Price their attention.

For his part, Price provided an informative overview of being a game warden, shining light on the requirements associated with the position, the pay scale, and the work conditions, officers’ broad discretion, and their control over their day-to-day duties.

Mr. Price observed that the best aspect of his job was being able to determine what his day-to-day duties are. Some days he may spend working with Park Rangers; other days he may work alone on a lake; and other days he might be trudging through a heavily forested area. On any given day, he might work with drug offenses; poaching; fishing without a license; boating while intoxicated; or, in one case, a person who captured, relocated, and released an alligator.

Students asked numerous insightful questions, showing impressive engagement with the topic and the speaker, and Mr. Price demonstrated great generosity with his time. Many thanks to the College of Criminal Justice for putting on this great program.

College of Criminal Justice Honors Academic Standouts

More than 200 people attended the College of Criminal Justice’s (COCJ) Honor’s Convocation Ceremony, where the College recognized their best and brightest. Adding poignancy to the event were the many alumni on hand, many of whom had endowed scholarships in memory of loved ones.

Dean Lyons led the proceedings, highlight the many accomplishments of the College and its storied history…

…before turning it over to Associate Dean Danielle Boisvert.

Dean Boisvert then introduced dozens of scholarships and more than 100 students who earned those scholarships, with faculty, staff, and alumni on hand to provide students with plaques and recognition.

The scholarships included numerous undergraduates, one of whom was President of LEAP Ambassadors, Jessica Cuevas.

Ms. Cuevas, in addition to being a Smith-Hutson Scholar, was awarded the O.B. Ellis-J.P. Gibbs Scholarship.

This was an apt scholarship, in that Cuevas occasionally volunteers at the J. Phillips Gibbs “Old Town Theatre,” providing a connection to the scholarship.

Graduate students were also recognized, including many in the Ph.D. program. Students such as Meghan Royle, Jazmin Polacios, and Cristal Hernandez-Avalos were recognized for the had work and accomplishments they have made while in graduate school.

Ed Owens, an SHSU alum and former Deputy Executive Director of TDCJ…

…was also on hand to congratulate Joaquin Padron, who was given the “Edward Glenn Owens” Scholarship.

Owens graduated from SHSU with a Criminal Justice degree, as did his wife, Rissie, who also teaches in the Criminal Justice Department, drawing on her expertise in pardons and paroles to instruct students.

It was a wonderful event, packed with students benefitting from the generosity of alumni, donors, faculty, and staff, and highlighting the best of Sam Houston State University.

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