Trine welcomes new CJ director

Lafata heading SPS program

 

Dr. Carl J. Lafata has joined the Trine University School of Professional Studies (SPS) as director of criminal justice programs.

 

Dr. Carl J. Lafata

He comes to Trine after over a decade of service with the Michigan State Police, most recently serving as departmental research analyst. He earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Western Michigan University, a master’s degree in criminal justice administration from Oklahoma City University and doctoral degree in sociology with concentration in criminology and social psychology from Western Michigan. His doctoral dissertation examined the effects of post-secondary education on state troopers’ job performance and attitudes.

In addition to his experience in law enforcement, Lafata has extensive teaching experience at Michigan higher education institutions, including Kellogg Community College, Western Michigan University and Michigan State.

“We are pleased to welcome a talented educator with equally impressive work experience to Trine SPS as director of criminal justice programs,” said Trine SPS Dean David Wood. “We look forward to enhancing the education of criminal justice students with Dr. Lafata’s expertise.”

Trine SPS has campuses in Angola, Fort Wayne, Merrillville and South Bend/Mishawaka. The SPS offers a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice at all campuses and a master of science in criminal justice at Trine Fort Wayne and Trine South Bend/Mishawaka.