Milligan University’s criminal justice department has introduced its first-ever Criminal Justice Club. The club was created by students seeking to build a community of those who share a passion for criminal justice.
Dr. Ken Lang, associate professor of criminology and criminal justice, explained how the club was formed. He said that in 2024, three students approached him with interest in creating a club centered on criminal justice topics.
“The students wanted to create a social atmosphere outside of the classroom where other students who are interested in criminal justice topics could gather and expand their knowledge,” he said. Lang mentored the students through the administrative process of applying for the organization. The criminology/criminal justice program is a relatively new addition at Milligan University. The program launched in fall 2022, and the club’s formation was a way to further develop the program.
The club held itsfirst official meeting Sept. 17,where members discussed plans for the future. Members outlined goals such as visiting Alcatraz East Museum in Pigeon Forge, going to local courthouses and a local criminal justice facility and hosting guest speakers and police demonstrations. As this club develops, members plan to meet every Wednesday at noon. Specific dates, times and locations are forthcoming.
Lang hopes the club will help people understand the criminal justice system from a different perspective.
“Many people don’t understand or have misconceptions about our criminal justice system and how it works,” Lang said. “My experience was that many officers were devout Christians, who brought about a lot of good to the communities.”
This club is open to anyone interested in learning more about the criminal justice system, not just those pursuing a career in the field.
Anyone interested can contact Lang at krlang@milligan.edu for more information.