Jennifer Freeman-Walker, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Criminology
Teaching provides an opportunity for a professor to not only deliver information to students but also offers an opportunity to expand a student’s mind and promote advancement in their critical thinking. It is the responsibility of the professor to not only develop a rapport with the students, but also provide an environment that is conducive to learning. In addition, the professor has the task to deliver and facilitate the information to the students; so that they can better reflect on the material and expand their horizons and thoughts not only as it relates to the specific class topic but also to concepts and notions outside of the classroom setting. Teaching and providing an individual with information and the opportunity to gain experience is a key role and one that should be taken with sincere appreciation and honor. It is an opportunity to peak one’s interest and expand not only their knowledge but also their thoughts and experiences. I believe in teaching methods that employee not only lecture components but also utilize critical thinking components and active involvement by the student. I believe those professors who gain the attention of the student and intrigue the student will be able to elicit participation and drive the student even beyond their expectations. Bridging the gap between knowledge in textbooks and practical application through experiential learning is key.
Biography
Dr. Freeman-Walker began her career as a child protection case manager in Polk County, Florida. During her tenure in the field, she became a child protection specialist, where she facilitated and co-facilitated Family Team Conferences for those families involved in the child protection system and later a child protection supervisor; where she led a team of case managers that ensured the protection and safety of children within the county.
In 2007, Dr. Freeman-Walker joined the Polk County Sheriff’s Office as the Senior Research Analyst, where she participated in the agency’s yearly goals and objectives, yearly Strategic Plan, as well as facilitating internal and external research projects and survey requests. She was later promoted by the Sheriff to Deputy Director of the Records Management Bureau. Dr. Walker oversaw the Warrants Unit, Crime Information Center, suspect extraditions, and agency records. Dr. Freeman-Walker administered agency compliance with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement guidelines and audit procedures as they pertained to the Criminal Justice Information System, as well as agency compliance with the Florida Department of Highway and Safety Motor Vehicle guidelines and audit protocols. She managed requests for public records within the Records Management Bureau, while ensuring compliance with Florida State Statute. In addition, Dr. Freeman-Walker ensured the completion and accuracy of the agency’s semi-annual and annual Florida Uniform Crime Report to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Dr. Freeman Walker has earned a Graduate Certificate in Corrections Leadership from the University of Central Florida and is a graduate of Florida State University’s Certified Public Manager’s Program, the Florida Sheriff’s Association Commander’s Academy, the Tenth Judicial Circuit State Attorneys Citizen Academy, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Citizen Academy.
Dr. Freeman Walker’s primary passion within the criminal justice system involves law enforcement and she is currently researching the relationship between law enforcement and mental health.
Education
University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida- Ph.D. in Public Affairs
- Dissertation: Investigator’s Perceptions of Inter-Jurisdictional Law Enforcement Information Sharing on Criminal Investigative Success: An Exploratory Analysis
- Master of Science in Criminal Justice
- Graduate Certificate in Corrections Leadership
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Minor in Economics
- Minor in Psychology
Interests
I can typically be found at various games and tournaments / meets cheering on my two sons. I love spending time with my family and friends.
Awards
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Citizen’s Academy (Tampa), 2022
- Association of College and University Educators (ACUE) Certified Faculty, 2021
- State Attorney Office: 10th Judicial Circuit (Florida) Inaugural Citizen’s Academy, 2019
- Graduate of the Florida Sheriff’s Association Commander’s Academy, 2014
- Certified Public Manager, Florida State University, 2012
Publications
- Co-Presenter, Council on Social Work Education Annual Program Meeting, October 2023
- Examination of Florida Law Enforcement Officers’ Perception in Seeking Mental Health Treatment
- Poster, Lakeland Regional Health 2023 Inaugural Central Florida Research Symposium
- Perception of Seeking Mental Health by Florida Law Enforcement Officers
- Dissertation: Investigator’s Perceptions of Inter-Jurisdictional Law Enforcement Information
- Sharing on Criminal Investigative Success: An Exploratory Analysis
Projects
Currently working on research with two faculty at other institutions regarding law enforcement and mental health.