Craig Laker, associate professor in the Department of Criminal Justice, has been awarded
professor emeritus rank at Trine University.
Trine President Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., presented Laker with a certificate in recognition
of the status at his home. Trine University’s Board of Trustees affirmed Laker’s emeritus
status at its Oct. 5 meeting.
Laker joined the university in 1999. His tenure included serving as faculty member,
chair of the Department of Criminal Justice, Psychology and Social Services, dean
of the Jannen School of Arts and Sciences, and Dean of the College of Graduate and
Professional Studies.
Over his teaching career at Trine, which included unprecedented growth in Trine’s
criminal justice programs, he was awarded the Gerald H. Moore Overall Excellence in
Teaching award, the Barrenbrugge Award for Faculty Excellence, and the Merle May McKetta
Thomas Excellence in Teaching Award in Arts and Sciences. He served as faculty advisor
for Trine University’s chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association and was
a part of the Community Anti-Violence Alliance, the Steuben County Humane Society,
and the Four County Vocational Cooperative Criminal Justice Advisory Board.
“As a result of Mr. Laker’s influence, countless young men and women have gained valuable
professional experience and gone on to meaningful careers in law enforcement,” the
certificate recognizing his status reads.