Alum Question and Answer with Colleen L. Stanford Director, Public Safety and Security

Returning to the College after several years in law enforcement, Colleen earned her associate degree from the College in Criminal Justice in 2010. She went on to earn a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Chestnut Hill College, a master's degree in Public Safety Management from Saint Joseph's University and successfully completed the School of Police Staff and Command through Northwestern University.

Q: What does it mean to you, as an alum, to return to CCP in this role?

A: When I initially enrolled in CCP, the goal was to use the education to further my career in law enforcement. I understood the importance of higher education and how it could propel my career to a higher level. I never imagined that first step would eventually lead to me earning such an important role here at the College as the director of Public Safety. CCP has always welcomed me and continues to be that welcoming embrace that I felt many years ago while I was on my path to earning my associate degree.

Q: What experiences at the College helped you in your career?

A: I had some of the best educators while I was studying at CCP. Many were retired from law enforcement but shared such a passion for the field that I could feel the excitement and the camaraderie of what it was like in the field while sitting in the classroom. I learned quite a bit during my time here and became inspired to move on to a four-year institution because CCP had really laid the groundwork for me. I left here with confidence and an assurance that I was going to make it in my career, and that I possessed the ability to pursue additional education.

Q: What advice do you have for our Criminal Justice students or students interested in the field?

A: My advice would be to keep pushing forward with integrity. Always do the right thing, even when no one is looking. Sometimes the criminal justice field is intimidating and scary, or maybe, in some people's minds, it simply isn't worth it. It is worth it! Criminal justice has so many components that one can dive into. Law enforcement was my choice, but [other areas] are all quite fulfilling. Within law enforcement, you have the opportunity to change not only your life and perspective, but also the lives and perspectives of the communities we serve daily.