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Public Service Resource Center

Dissertation Faculty Members

 
Instructor name Areas of expertise Preferred research method Primary degree taught Research focus
Gabriele Suboch Criminal justice - forensic science Qualitative DCJ My dissertation was assessing the use of bloodstain pattern analysis by officers, agency and locations
Jennifer Biddle Probation, Criminology, Drug Abuse Qualitative DCJ Currently focusing on assisting policing departments with evaluation research to assess program and department effectiveness. 
Joe DiRenzo Homeland Security and Criminal Justice  Qualitative DCJ The Maritime Transportation System. Have done extensive work in defining in quantifying deterrence in law enforcement operations and the use of technology in law enforcement ops (i.e. drones). 
Meger Chappell  Business, Organizational Leadership, Law, Criminal Justice, Conflict Resolution and Human Resources Qualitative DCJ My research focuses on the intersections of business, organizational leadership, law, and criminal justice, with particular attention to how effective leadership and legal frameworks shape organizational performance and ethical practice. I also explore the role of conflict resolution and human resource strategies in promoting sustainable workplace cultures, reducing disputes, and enhancing employee engagement. Through this multidisciplinary lens, my work seeks to bridge theory and practice to prepare future leaders to navigate complex organizational and societal challenges.
Melissa Minton Homeland Security and Criminal Justice  Qualitative DCJ Anything dealing with Homeland security and criminal justice 
Vicki Lindsay Policing, stress and police Quantitative DCJ Currently working on an Open Educational Resource about quantitative methodology that is set to be published in December 2025. After that, I plan to research AI use in educational fields and how instructors are attempting to teach content in the age of AI. 
Barbara Archer Public Administration -- leadership, policy, TQM/LEAN Six Sigma, health care.  Courses:  Executive Leadership, Strategic Management, Public Management Theory, Public Policy Administration, Principles of Organization ..., Quality Management. Qualitative DPA Transformation and transformational models in Public Administration.  Implementation of LEAN/Six Sigma in the public sector. Healthcare policy making. 
Dave Lowery Homeland Security, Public Administration, Human Resources, Organizational Leadership & Strategy, and Native American Studies Qualitative DPA
Dr. Jason T Weber Business, Leadership, Public Policy, Homeland Security Qualitative DPA How Public Administrative policy can be adapted and utilized to support growth and efficient organizational operations. How successful leadership traits intertwine with Policy to generate effective change and lasting success
Ian B. Cole Homeland security, immigration, emergency preparedness, public administration, generational differences Qualitative DPA Homeland security, immigration, emergency preparedness, public administration, generational differences
Jeremy Buchanan Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Homeland Security Quantitative DPA I do not currently have any ongoing research of my own taking place. But my professional experience is in homeland security and criminal justice.  My own dissertation was focused in areas of public administration and public policy focus on mental health care for Texas Veterans.  
Lori Demeter Public Policy, program evaluation Qualitative DPA Voting policies and behaviors
Potential for AI in higher education
Blake Lafond Policing, Gangs, CPTED Quantitative DPA My dissertation research concerned the relationship between self-control and the approval of excessive force. I have conducted research regarding gangs and CPTED. The research I am beginning concerns the relationship between juvenile environmental factors and validated gang levels.