Alumni
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Featured Alumni
Mesha Winford
B.S. Criminal Justice, 2014
Current job title and place of employment
Executive Communications Travel Team, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Pentagon, Washington DC
Why did you choose this line of work?
It challenges me and forces me outside of my comfort zone. I get bored behind a desk. The dynamic/fast paced environment fits my personality.
Favorite ECU and/or Criminal Justice memory
Definitely the ECU Balcony Jumpers.
Fave Criminal Justice memory is Dr. (Judge) Foster’s Monday morning mugshot slideshow from the previous weekend.
How has a degree in Criminal Justice from ECU benefited you in your career?
It has expedited my Air Force career; rank has come quicker compared to my colleagues since I came in with my degree. Also, outside of my first duty station, I haven’t done normal Air Force operations. My degree in Criminal Justice has allowed me to apply for and receive positions within the Joint environment (Joint Staff), as well as with the Office of the Secretary of Defense. I also get to help my colleagues who are further in age and their career who are just now pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice.
What advice do you have for current students?
Communicate with your peers and professors. Don’t be afraid to seek help, in any capacity. Initially, my grades suffered because of depression. The student counseling center coupled with understanding professors helped a ton. Register for classes early; get them as close together as possible. Use a planner and prioritize. Do not procrastinate. And MAKE FLASHCARDS!
Any other information/testimonial/aspect of your story you’d like to provide
More on behavioral health: do not be afraid or ashamed to seek help. It will save your grades but more importantly it will save your life. Take breaks. If semester classes are too overwhelming, then go to summer school! Put your all into your “easier” classes first. If you need room to fail in your more demanding classes later on (not on purpose of course) you have cushion to fall back on. Annoy your academic advisor. You should know what classes/credits you need to satisfy well in advance. There are systems designed to HELP you! You don’t have to do it alone. Find your tribe/supporting cast. Isolation is debilitating. Get up before you hit the ground.
Mary Anne Werner
Masters of Science in Criminal Justice certification in Security Studies, 2021
Current job title and place of employment
Intern with the Rocky Mount Police Department working towards re-imagining policing in the community.
Why did you choose this line of work?
I began the internship while still a graduate student at ECU. I was asked to continue my time there for a bit longer and loved the work I was doing to help build a stronger level of trust between the police department and the citizens, so while I am waiting for my background check with a federal agency to be complete, I am happy to continue working with the Chief and his staff at Rocky Mount.
Favorite ECU and/or Criminal Justice memory
My favorite memory from ECU is a tough one to choose. I was only here as a graduate student and I began in January 2020, only three months before the whole campus and world shut down for Covid-19. However, there are two memories that really stick out to me. The first one was the time a professor asked to speak to me one-on-one just to tell me he enjoyed reading my research papers and offer help as I continue my education. The second was my last memory at ECU. I graduated in December of 2021 so there was no college graduation ceremony and no official hooding ceremony either. I really wanted to experience that feeling of accomplishment and asked Dr. Bonner if she might have time to take a photo with me in the regalia. Not only did she make the time for me, but she walked me through what the real hooding ceremony would have been like and took numerous pictures with me throughout the River’s Building and at the Cow statue. This meant so much to me and was a wonderful way to end my degree and assistantship with the Criminal Justice Department.
How has a degree in Criminal Justice from ECU benefited you in your career?
Prior to my graduate degree, I did not really know what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I loved learning about criminal justice and true crime, and I loved diving into the psychology behind the criminal mind, but not what that could mean for my future. This degree has given me direction. I am in the process of accepting a job at a federal law enforcement agency, and from there the possibilities seem almost limitless. I have so many career goals that I never could have imagined before beginning my master’s degree and I am honestly excited for the future instead of fearing the uncertainty of what I was going to do next. I think that that more than anything, is how this degree benefited me in my career. I have more confidence in my capabilities, I know my goals and have a plan on how I can reach them, and I am open to opportunities that originally felt beyond my reach.
What advice do you have for current students?
My advice to current students would be to get to know your professors. It does not matter if you are a student in the undergraduate program or a student in the master’s/PhD program, talk to your professors. If you have any questions or comments, you can’t be afraid to reach out to your professors. Even if you don’t have any questions, just get to know them as people. Making connections in this world is so important and your professors are a smart place to begin cultivating them. They want you to succeed and are looking for ways to help you if only you show them that you are open to their guidance. I promise you will not regret getting to know the people who are teaching you.
Any other information/testimonial/aspect of your story you’d like to provide
Lastly, I just want to wish all current students the best of luck going froward and a happy graduation Class of 2022!
Trooper Stone Baker
Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice, 2021
Current job title and place of employment
State Trooper: Virginia State Police
Why did you choose this line of work?
I chose to pursue a career in law enforcement because it was a career I had always admired, even from a young age. I had family and many friends who were law enforcement, so it seemed to attract me like a moth to a light. Having volunteered with my local fire department and rescue squad from a young age, I felt like However, I do not feel like you “choose” this career. In my short time as a trooper, I have come to the realization that this line of work chooses you. It is long hours and sometimes people are not pleased to be working with you. Especially in today’s social environment, this career is not for just anyone.
Favorite ECU and/or Criminal Justice memory
I would have to say that my favorite ECU Criminal Justice memory is all the times that the Criminal Justice Student Organization had professionals in the CJ career field come speak and share their experiences. This always peaked my interest. Seeing individuals excelling, in the field I was studying to enter, always gravitated my interest even more. Now, my favorite ECU memory has to be the many Saturdays I spent with my best friends in Dowdy-Ficklen cheering on the Pirates!!!!
How has a degree in Criminal Justice from ECU benefited you in your career?
I feel that my degree in Criminal Justice thoroughly prepared me for the rigorous academics of the police academy. The time I spent in the CJ program and in the academy has also made me a far more educated law enforcement officer, which assists me in properly protecting and serving citizens all while respecting their constitutional rights. I would not change my degree for anything.
What advice do you have for current students?
The best piece of advice I could give current students is to never give up on your dreams. I would also like to say; enjoy your college experience, but always put 100% into your academics. You have some of the best educators in the world at East Carolina, please take advantage of soaking up every ounce of knowledge they have to give!
Any other information/testimonial/aspect of your story you’d like to provide
I always dreamed of attending East Carolina University, mainly because of the family influence. My aunt and uncle both attended and graduated from ECU, my uncle being a part of the class of 1991 and my aunt being the class of 1992. My uncle graduated ECU with a degree in Criminal Justice and also pursued a career as a Virginia State Trooper. He is now the First Sergeant of the Executive Protective Unit of the Virginia State Police, which is charged with the protection and security of the Governor and their family.
To end, I’d like to thank my advisor, Mrs. Peggy Newsome for all her help during my time at ECU. I had many amazing professors as well. Especially Mr. Chad Jordan and Mrs. Keri Fox Grimsley, both who always went above and beyond for their students. You are both a blessing to East Carolina University.
Tyler DeVoid
Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice, 2020
Current job title and place of employment
Uniformed Division of the Secret Service, Washington, DC
Why did you choose this line of work?
I wanted to serve the public and try to help people view law enforcement in a more positive light.
Favorite ECU and/or Criminal Justice memory
My favorite memory from ECU was going on a study abroad trip to Amsterdam and London my junior year. We were able to learn a lot about Criminal Justice in different countries and had a great group of people.
How has a degree in Criminal Justice from ECU benefited you in your career?
If it weren’t for my degree from ECU I probably wouldn’t have been able to work for the Secret Service, my degree has helped me achieve my dream of being an officer and has opened the doors for me to so many opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise.
What advice do you have for current students?
Don’t give up on yourself, things are going to be tough once you graduate college but put your mind to something and work on achieving your goal every single day. It will all pay off in the end so long as you are dedicated. Also, keep in touch with your professors, they really are a great resource and are always willing to help you even once you’ve graduated.
Any other information/testimonial/aspect of your story you’d like to provide
I would just like to thank all of my professors and staff at ECU for their dedication to their students before and after they have graduated. Mr. Jordan has been a tremendous help to me along the way ever since I started at ECU to after I had graduated. His encouragement and belief in me has meant a lot.
Officer Ayyat Zeidan
Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice, 2019
Current job title and place of employment
Law Enforcement Officer with the Greenville, NC Police Department
Why did you choose this line of work?
Back in 2015 when I first enrolled in ECU, I knew my undergraduate was going to be Criminal Justice, but as I began getting closer in finalizing my degree, figuring out what to do after graduation was the next challenge. Growing up, I’ve always had a niche for wanting to help people. At first, my mindset was law school and pursuing a law degree, thinking this path will satisfy my career goals. Nevertheless, I realized one day while sitting in court that this was actually not the profession I wanted to do. Sitting in that courtroom not only was an eye opener, but provided the understanding that I wanted my career to include a profession where assistance was provided hands on. By completing an internship with a police department, I experienced firsthand interactions with the public and visually saw Officers providing aid to those in need, which was the answer to my long term niche. These encounters were what made me fall in love with Law Enforcement and pursue this career as it satisfied what I was searching for.
Favorite ECU and/or Criminal Justice memory
Choosing one memory to be my favorite would be impossible as there were so many throughout my years at ECU. From the football games to the group study sessions, I enjoyed them all. The Criminal Justice Program provided opportunities to explore and understand my field which helped put myself in the position where I am today in my career.
How has a degree in Criminal Justice from ECU benefited you in your career?
Obtaining my degree from ECU has helped my career in numerous ways. All of the classes offered in the program each have given and taught different perspectives of criminal justice that I use on a daily basis. Just to name a few, investigations, interrogations, basic law, forensics, and many others have provided significant information to use while on the job.
What advice do you have for current students?
Some advice I would give to current students would be about change. Whether your college plan has already been made or you’re stuck deciding what major is right for you just understand whatever’s meant to be will be. There’s no need to worry about the future as we shouldn’t stress over things we cannot control and to slow down and enjoy the moments before they slip away.
Any other information/testimonial/aspect of your story you’d like to provide
https://www.witn.com/2021/04/22/greenville-officer-awarded-after-saving-suicidal-person/
The call for service that occurred that night will be one that I will never forget. At first it was just like any other call we were used to, however unexpectedly took a drastic turn. What felt like hours into our conversation, but in actuality was no more than forty-five minutes, the victim agreed and stepped down from the ledge, giving myself and everyone else a sigh of relief. I am very thankful to have been working that night and been in the position where the victim and I built a rapport, prior to the incident, as he stated he would only speak to me. Occurrences like these are what drive me to be the best Officer I could possibly be and use my skills to provide assistance to those in need. Whether the call for service could be either a simple noise compliant or being enroute to help a subject who’s having a mental episode, being there and making a difference in someone’s life is truly rewarding.
Distinguished Alumni Award
Carl W. Caulk
At the October 1, 2021 Board meeting, the joint Department of Criminal Justice and Criminal Justice Advisory Board (CJAB) Distinguished Alumni Award was given to Mr. Carl Caulk (’89 ‘17) by Mr. Art Beeler (CJAB Chair, pictured right). Carl Caulk graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1989, and a master’s degree in criminal justice in 2017. While pursuing his master’s degree, he also completed graduate certificates in security studies and criminal justice education. He had a distinguished 27-year professional career with the United States Marshals Service, culminating in his appointment as Assistant Director. Upon retirement, he formed Integritas Creative Solutions, a security consulting company that provides consultation, training, and instruction to public and private entities in the areas of security, law enforcement, compliance, ethics, organizational management, investigations, threat mitigation, risk assessment, protective operations, and protective intelligence. A longtime supporter of the department and long-standing member of the department Advisory Board, Caulk is noted for his commitment to the Department of Criminal Justice and East Carolina University. An Advisory Board colleague called his enthusiasm for the program and its students “infectious” and described him as “creative and energetic with a constant eye on continuous improvement for the department and the law enforcement community as a whole.”
Jack Thomas Harrigan
At the October 25, 2019 Board meeting, the joint Department of Criminal Justice and Criminal Justice Advisory Board (CJAB) Inaugural Distinguished Alumni Award was given posthumously to Mr. Jack Thomas Harrigan (’74). The award was received by his son Neal Harrigan pictured with Mr. Carl Caulk, Chair CJAB (right) and Dr. William Bloss, Chair of the Department of Criminal Justice (left). Tom Harrigan was a Marine and Viet Nam veteran who graduated from East Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1974. He had a distinguished professional career with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, and upon retirement, joined the Carteret Community College criminal justice faculty until his premature death. A Carteret College colleague wrote “Tom Harrigan was a good man, consummate professional, and a credit to the Criminal Justice Department at East Carolina University.”
Distinguished Alumni Award Eligibility & Nomination Procedures