Criminal Justice alumni return to guide students in annual “speed mentoring”

Each year, the University of Georgia Criminal Justice Studies Program hosts a speed mentoring event that connects students with alumni and professionals across the criminal justice field. More than a networking opportunity, the event bridges classroom learning with real-world career paths.  

“This annual event is always exciting for our students.” said Sarah Shannon, director of the Criminal Justice Studies Program. “They get to meet seasoned professionals ifrom law enforcement, legal careers, the courts and even social services.” 

Structured like speed dating, the event welcomed 50+ students who rotated through nine tables of mentors, spending seven minutes at each.  Alumni and professionals from agencies including federal and local law enforcement, public defenders’ offices, and nonprofit advocacy groups shared insights on their roles and how they serve justice and community needs.   

Many of the professionals in attendance are UGA Franklin alumni, including Kristen Daniel (BA Criminal Justice’ 08; BS Psychology ’08; MSW ’13), Treatment Services Administrator for the Athens-Clarke County Courts; Jeff Hammock (BA in Political Science and Criminal Justice ’05), the Deputy Chief of Community Engagement and Professional Standards at the UGA Police Department; and Greg Owen (BA Criminal Justice ’77), a retired Special Agent in the Georgia Bureau of Investigation – all of whom were engaged in generously sharing advice to students. 

“It provides students with an opportunity to connect and think about their future career ideas,” said Shannon. “Some students here may know what they think they want to do. Some may be totally open and unsure.” 

This event reflects the department’s mission to foster curiosity and ambition.  Students ask questions, explore diverse career paths, and discover how their studies translate into meaningful work. 

For many, these conversations lead directly to internships.  “Our major requires a capstone internship,” said Shannon. “Students often meet someone here and later apply to that agency for an internship.” 

The Criminal Justice Studies Alumni Networking Event continues to inspire students to put their curiosity into action with mentorship as a foundation for future success.   

Image: Photo courtesy of Criminal Justice Studies Program, photo by Wingate Downs