VSU Discusses Diversion Programs

VALDOSTA — Valdosta State University’s next Critical Issues in Criminal Justice Seminar Series event will explore the advantages and disadvantages of diversion programs.
 
Faculty, staff, students, alumni, retirees, and friends of the university who want to learn more about this topic are invited to a free sneak peek of this event from noon to 4 p.m. on Monday, April 24, in the University Center Magnolia Room.
 
Ann Kasun, the deputy clerk of Valdosta Municipal Court, will give a presentation about diversion programs and specialty courts, a topic she will cover in more depth during the upcoming Critical Issues in Criminal Justice Seminar Series: Diversion Programs on June 30.
 
A criminal justice diversion program is a form of sentencing that directs the offender to a rehabilitation program instead of jail to give him or her an opportunity to change their behavior and avoid conviction and a criminal record.
 
“Diversion programs are designed to reach people who may not achieve necessary behavioral changes in jail,” said Kasun. “They can join a program that will be more effective, producing better results for the offenders and the community.”
 
During the sneak peek, attendees will have an opportunity to meet with faculty members from VSU’s Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice, as well as enjoy refreshments and enter for a chance to win door prizes.
 
Participants interested in attending the Diversion Programs seminar on June 30 can register online at http://www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts-sciences/sacj/criminal-justice/cjs-series.php. Advance registration is $300 for general admission, $150 for VSU alumni, and $75 for current VSU students, faculty, or staff. Employees from any Lowndes County criminal justice agency can register for a discounted fee of $225. Onsite registration will be available for an additional fee of $50. Registration includes continuing education unit credits, breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
 
The sneak peek is presented in collaboration with VSU’s Office of Admissions, Dual Credit Honors Academy, and Pathways Program. The Critical Issues in Criminal Justice Seminar Series is funded by the Criminal Justice Outreach Program, which is supported by a 2016-2017 VSU Innovation Fund Grant. The Innovation Fund was created to invest in the future of VSU by supporting innovative practices, programs, and approaches that continue to improve teaching, services, and support of VSU students. 
 
Visit www.valdosta.edu/cjopenhouse to RSVP for the sneak peek.
 
Contact Dr. Bobbie Ticknor, criminal justice faculty member, at bbticknor@valdosta.edu to learn more.
 
On the Web:
 
http://www.valdosta.edu/colleges/arts-sciences/sacj/criminal-justice