Approaching Diversity Awareness with College Students and the Criminal Justice Population Through Community Engagement

• In Event: Considering Diversity, Retention and Employment prospects in Criminal Justice Education

Abstract

In an era where policy changes are warranted surrounding immigration, discrimination, and issues of inequality it is crucial to deliver the message of diversity awareness to our students. Engaging students with previously limited exposure to cultures outside of their own present noteworthy challenges. These challenges often lead to personal growth, cultural sensitivity, and pathways to careers promoting empathy. This chapter will begin by illustrating the need for a better understanding of the population we serve in the field of criminal justice and the value this brings to our students seeking employment in the field. The remaining sections will incorporate examples of diversity awareness in the classroom through the use of community engagement and the importance of the give-and-take relationship with this population.

Author

• Susan Koski, Central Connecticut State University