Associate Professor of Criminal Justice
Office Location: Dunham Hall, Room 233
Telephone: 630-844-7532
Fax: 630-844-7830
E-mail Address: swhitus@aurora.edu
Dr.
Whitus joined the faculty in the Criminal Justice Program in 2007.
Before coming to AU, she taught for the Texas A&M University,
California State University and University of South Carolina systems.
Having experienced large universities, Dr. Whitus knew she wanted to be
part of a university community of smaller class size and more
involvement in student mentoring. She strives to prepare her students
with practical and insightful solutions to "real-world" challenges, and
is often described by students as an instructor who cares and goes
"above and beyond" the contractual responsibilities of a professor. Dr.
Whitus has extensive experience working with justice professionals,
policymakers, community leaders, social service providers, and members
of non-profit organizations. For several years she has served as a
consultant to three state departments of corrections to develop and
implement reentry strategies for juvenile and adult populations, as well
as evaluate correctional staff training.
Education
Ph.D. (Criminal Justice) - Sam Houston State University, College of Criminal Justice
M.P.A. (Master of Public Administration) - University of Texas
B.S. (Criminal Justice) - University of Texas
Areas of Specialization
Death-Sentenced and Life-Sentenced Populations
Special Needs Offenders and Correctional Populations
Child Maltreatment Sequelae
Technology-Enhanced Criminal Justice Education
Technology-Enhanced Training and Education for Correctional Personnel
Courses Taught at AU
CRJ 1010 Into. to the Criminal Justice System
CRJ/SOC 2300 Criminology
CRJ 2150 Correctional Services
CRJ 3610WI Research Methods
CRJ 2310 Juvenile Justice
CRJ 4810 Special Topics: Death Penalty in America
CRJ 4810 Special Topics: Serial & Mass Murder
IDS 1600 Culture, Identity & Expression
Selected Campus Involvement
Faculty Advisor, Aurora Criminal Justice Association
Faculty Advisor, Alpha Phi Sigma (National Criminal Justice Honor Society)
Chair, Early Student Intervention Team
Faculty Mentor - Early Academic Warning Program
Director, Student Honor Projects
Spartan Mentor
Faculty Development Committee
Graduate Affairs Committee
Athletic Committee
