Penn State undergraduates take research to annual criminal justice conference – Penn State University

Penn State Students Advance Criminal Justice Research at National Conference

Introduction

In fall 2025, Penn State students presented original research at the Midwestern Criminal Justice Association’s (MJCA) 48th Annual Meeting in Chicago, contributing to national discussions on criminal justice policy and reform. This opportunity aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Student Research and Presentations

1. Adam Eglinger (Penn State World Campus) focused on digital privacy law, analyzing discrepancies between federal and California state laws that create vulnerabilities in personal data protection. This research supports SDG 16 by addressing legal frameworks that promote justice and protect individual rights.
2. Hope Samuel (Penn State World Campus) examined the application of U.S. laws in international conflicts and ways to enhance government accountability, contributing to SDG 16 by promoting transparent and accountable institutions.
3. Norah Singh (Penn State Harrisburg) researched the use of virtual reality in criminal justice education, advancing innovative educational methods consistent with SDG 4.

Conference Experience and Impact

• The MJCA conference, affiliated with the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, provides a platform for scholars, practitioners, and students nationwide to share research and policy work.
• Students gained valuable experience in public speaking, networking with future lawyers and policymakers, and receiving constructive feedback to refine their research.
• The event fostered personal and academic growth, enhancing students’ confidence and communication skills, which are essential for contributing to SDG 4 and SDG 16.

Faculty Mentorship and Institutional Support

Assistant Professor Shauntey James, who teaches both in-person and online criminal justice courses and advises the Criminal Justice Club, played a pivotal role in mentoring the students. Her guidance helped students transition from learning to actively contributing to the field, supporting SDG 4 through quality mentorship and education.

• James emphasized the importance of presenting research, receiving feedback, and preparing for academic publication to deepen students’ professional identity and impact.
• Financial support for travel and conference participation was provided by Penn State Harrisburg’s School of Public Affairs and Penn State World Campus, demonstrating institutional commitment to student development and SDG 17 through partnerships and resource allocation.

Conclusion

The students expressed gratitude for the opportunity and mentorship, highlighting the experience as rewarding and meaningful. Their engagement in research beyond the classroom exemplifies Penn State’s dedication to fostering educational excellence (SDG 4) and promoting justice and strong institutions (SDG 16).

Learn how Penn State World Campus supports working adults pursuing degrees in fields like criminal justice.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The article highlights students engaging in research, presenting at national conferences, and receiving mentorship, which directly relates to improving quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
   • The focus on criminal justice research, digital privacy laws, government accountability, and policy reform connects strongly to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice, and building effective institutions.
3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • The use of virtual reality in criminal justice education and research on digital privacy laws implies innovation and the use of technology in education and justice systems.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university.
   • Target 4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including education for sustainable development and global citizenship.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.6: Develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions at all levels.
   • Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national legislation and international agreements.
3. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors, including education technologies.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 4 (Quality Education):
   • Number of students participating in research and academic conferences (implied by student presentations at the MJCA conference).
   • Proportion of students receiving mentorship and academic support (implied through faculty mentorship and support programs).
   • Access to quality tertiary education programs (implied by availability of online and campus-based criminal justice programs).
2. For SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions):
   • Number of research projects and policy discussions addressing justice, privacy laws, and government accountability (implied by the students’ research topics).
   • Level of public access to information and legal protections for privacy (implied by discussion of conflicting privacy laws and government accountability).
3. For SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure):
   • Use of innovative technologies like virtual reality in education (implied by Singh’s research on VR in criminal justice education).
   • Number of educational programs integrating technological advancements (implied by the criminal justice program’s use of technology).

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: psu.edu