The Community College of Rhode Island announced on March 12 that it will hold its seventh annual Criminal Justice Day on Wednesday, March 25, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Knight Campus Great Hall in Warwick. The event is designed to connect students with professionals in law enforcement, legal services, and social advocacy.
Criminal Justice Day aims to help students learn about career opportunities and make connections that can support their transition from education to employment. By bringing together recruitment officers, industry experts, and alumni, the event provides a direct link between classroom learning and workforce needs.
“This event represents a full-circle moment for our college,” said Rosemary A. Costigan, Ph.D., RN, president of CCRI. “By bringing state leaders, specialized investigators, and successful alumni back to campus, we are providing our students with more than just networking—we are providing a clear view of their future. We want to ensure every student has the access and the tools to become the next generation of leaders in Rhode Island’s workforce.”
Mark England, CCRI Associate Professor of Criminal Justice, said: “Criminal Justice Day is an opportunity for both college and high school students to engage with professionals in the fields of law enforcement, law, victim advocacy, and, this year, forensic science, to learn of the many educational and career paths that are available in the field of criminal justice. The day offers guest speakers, displays and demonstrations, and the chance to speak directly with career professionals.”
The program includes hands-on demonstrations such as tours of the Rhode Island State Police Crime Scene Investigation Van and a static drone display. Officer Tim Lipka from Warwick Police Department will also conduct a live K-9 demonstration featuring Haki—a dog trained in patrol work and narcotics detection.
Representatives from agencies including the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (DOC), State Sheriffs’ office, municipal police departments as well as organizations like Day One and Domestic Violence Advocacy will participate in the event.
Rosemary A. Costigan became the first alumna to serve as president of CCRI according to the official website. The college supports community development through programs such as Rhode Island Promise which offers free tuition for recent high school graduates according to its official website. CCRI maintains campuses across Warwick, Lincoln, Providence and Newport along with education centers in Westerly and Woonsocket according to its official website.
The Community College of Rhode Island provides more than 200 degree and certificate programs according to its official website while aiming to deliver accessible higher education and career training for residents according to its official website. Costigan served as CCRI’s sixth president—and first alumna leader—according to its official website. The college operates multiple campuses statewide supporting student success through initiatives like free tuition for recent graduates as well as transfer agreements with over 120 universities; it emphasizes accessible education tailored for community needs according to its official website.
Criminal Justice Day is open without charge for all CCRI students as well as local high school students interested in criminal justice or related fields.
