Ellen Agyei 

B.A., Sociology, University of Ghana

I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the University of Ghana, where I conducted my final-year research on the stigmatization of women living with mental health disorders in the workplace. I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, with a continued focus on gender and crime. My research interests also include juvenile delinquency and the intersection of mental health and crime.

Isaac Broni

I serve as a graduate assistant under Dr. Bert Burraston. Originally from Ghana, I bring over a decade of law enforcement experience as a police officer, where I specialized in community safety, crime prevention, and youth engagement. I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a concentration in Guidance and Counselling from the University of Education, Winneba. My academic and professional journey is driven by a deep commitment to integrating criminological theory with practical strategies to reduce juvenile delinquency and enhance public trust in policing. As an intern in the Memphis Police Department’s Information Systems Division, I have gained hands-on experience with advanced technologies such as surveillance systems, GIS mapping, and real-time crime data analysis. My current research explores the causes and prevention of juvenile delinquency, with a focus on evidence-based interventions and policy reform. I am passionate about joining multidisciplinary teams that protect lives and property, uphold justice, and foster safer communities. My goal is to return to law enforcement leadership, where I can implement innovative, youth-focused crime prevention strategies.

Andrew Gilbert

B.A. Criminology & Criminal Justice, University of Memphis

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Memphis in May 2024, and I am currently working with Dr. Johnson on research and teaching. My areas of interest include criminal procedures and law enforcement in policing, with a primary focus on the role of education and training for police officers to enhance public relations and improve the efficiency of law enforcement interactions.

William Hicks

B.A., Criminology and Criminal Justice, University of Memphis

I received my Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Memphis in Spring 2024, graduating Magna Cum Laude with University Honors and a minor in Emergency Management. During my undergraduate studies, I worked as a student trainee with the United States Secret Service, maintaining a Top-Secret Security Clearance. I also served as a Certified Transportation Security Officer at Memphis International Airport, where I became certified in computed tomography X-ray technology. In both roles, I worked directly for the Department of Homeland Security. My achievements include a University of Memphis award for "Outstanding Academic Achievement, Criminal Justice Career Professional," the Vigil Honor, several firearm identification awards from my time with TSA, an 8-hour time off award for exceptional service from the Secret Service, and the discovery of an illegal firearm during a warrant search of a convicted felon. I also served as an Associate Justice with the University Student Court. In addition, I am an Eagle Scout, a dual-certified lifeguard, Basic Life Support Red Cross certified, and have instructed Leadership Development courses for the Boy Scouts of America. I’ve also served as the director of a tri-state chapter of The Order of the Arrow, a national nonprofit focused on youth development.

Joshua Logan

I am a graduate student at the University of Memphis and graduated from my undergrad in the spring of 2025. I’m currently in route to getting my master's in criminology and have in interest in victimology studies.

Hannah Tims

I received my bachelor's degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Memphis, with a minor in political science. While an undergrad, I participated in two internships at the district attorney’s office and the state capitol in the TN general assembly. My areas of interest include the criminal justice system, criminal law, human rights, constitutional law and learning about the death penalty. After I graduate, I plan to attend law school. 

Kaycee Wayne

B.A., Psychology and Criminal Justice, University of Tennessee at Martin

I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice from the University of Tennessee at Martin. I am currently in my last semester of the Criminology and Criminal Justice Master’s Program at the University of Memphis. During my undergraduate studies, I conducted research on emotions and behavior and their impact on the lives of college students. I have professional experience working with youth and community programs through the City of Memphis and the YMCA. This experience reflects my strong interest in understanding human behavior, particularly among justice-involved youth. My research interests focus on how behavior analysis can inform and reform approaches to rehabilitation, restorative justice, and offender support, ensuring that everyone is thoroughly represented and treated fairly, both ethically and mentally.

Past graduate students can be found here!