St. John’s University welcomed more than 50 participants from the New York Police Department’s Law Enforcement Explorers program on October 28.
Keith Cozine, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security, and James E. McCabe, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security, spearheaded the event, joined by six other professors from The Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies. The professors engaged students in sessions covering various aspects of the Criminal Justice, Cyber Security Systems, and Homeland Security undergraduate degree programs. They also took a tour of the Queens, NY, campus, which included the College’s Homeland Security and Cyber Security Labs.
“The discussions between the professors and the explorers provided valuable perspectives on the implications of a career in law enforcement, emphasizing how classroom experiences contribute to better preparation for future jobs in the field,” said Dr. Cozine.
Breaking into smaller groups, the students rotated through different breakout sessions, gaining firsthand insights into crime scene investigation, forensic psychology, critical infrastructure protection, cyber security, and community policing. Participants engaged in classroom activities demonstrating the connections between reality and academics.
“St. John’s University was thrilled to host the NYPD’s Explorers and their post advisors and looks forward to future collaboration opportunities in the pursuit of knowledge and professional growth,” said Dr. McCabe
Following the educational sessions, the explorers enjoyed a lunch where they continued conversations with the professors in a more relaxed environment.
“The NYPD wishes to thank St. John’s University and its faculty for showing our explorers around their campus,” said Travis Smith, Field Director of Exploring. “The Explorers program works when young people visit universities and businesses in industries of interest to gain a deeper understanding of the career options available to them. Law Enforcement Explorers stand to benefit greatly from learning about options for higher education with a world-class institution like St. John’s University.”