Mercyhurst University Criminology & Criminal Justice Department

05/25/2026

05/09/2026

Congratulations to Dr. EmmaLeigh Kirchner, associate professor of criminal justice and criminology, for winning the 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award at Mercyhurst University. She is model professor who serves our students, our department, and our school very well inside and outside of the classroom. Kudos and Carpe Diem! ☘️ MU Social & Behavioral Sciences Mercyhurst University

05/08/2026

Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society, held their annual induction ceremony last evening at the Erie Yacht Club. Graduating seniors received their honor cords and new members received their certificates of membership. Dr. Peter Benekos, professor emeritus, was in attendance at this lovely event.  MU Social & Behavioral Sciences Mercyhurst University

04/21/2026

I am very proud of my students who were in my SCI Albion Issues in Criminal Justice courses. While I’m in Ireland, they presented at the Nonviolence and Racial Justice in Erie Conference at Mercyhurst University on their experiences in my prison courses. They are truly ambassadors of higher education in prison programs. 😊These are some of my favorite moments in teaching. 😊

04/20/2026

Dr. Garase’s Restorative Justice class in Dungarvan had the opportunity to visit the District Court and Garda Station.

04/18/2026

Congratulations go to GINA SARAMA, our 2026 recipient of the Sister Eustace Taylor Award in Graduation Education—School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. Gina is a student in the Criminal Justice Administration graduate program. Her undergraduate degree was in Intelligence Studies with a minor in criminal justice at Mercyhurst! Carpe diem☘️ Mercyhurst University Criminology & Criminal Justice Department

04/17/2026

Congratulations go to BLAKE TAYLOR as the 2026 recipient of the McAuley Award for Excellence in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences - Associate Degree Level.

Blake is a criminal justice major who is completing his degree through the Mercyhurst University Municipal Police Training Academy. Congratulations and Carpe Diem! ☘️ MU Social & Behavioral Sciences

04/15/2026

We are ready for the Centennial!!!

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04/10/2026

Congratulations to Dr. EmmaLeigh Kirchner, the 2026 Teaching Excellence Award Winner at Mercyhurst University. A beloved teacher and dedicated leader, we are all proud to celebrate her on this prestigious award!