Challenging Perceptions: Understanding Inmates Beyond the Stereotypes

This presentation will focus on my experiences at the prison, specifically my interactions with three groups of inmates. I collaborated with Professor Carson at the Perry Institution, working with inmates in the step-down program, which helps individuals transition from restricted housing to general population housing. As participants advance through the phases, they face fewer restrictions and gain more privileges. These inmates attend a class every Wednesday. Additionally, we also facilitate workshops with long-term inmates, allowing them to select discussion topics. This semester, we had the opportunity to speak with inmates in restricted housing as well. I help criminology students from Lander design these workshops, where we provide lessons and exercises to enhance understanding and challenge new perspectives. The presentation will highlight the gap between perceptions of inmates and their realities, demonstrating how meaningful discussions can benefit them. I hope this inspires more students to volunteer and take the step to break the stigmas surrounding the lives of inmates, offering them an alternative point of view.

Faith Quattlebaum graduated from Ridge View High School in Columbia and is a senior Criminology major, graduating in May 2025. In her senior year at Lander, she was a teaching assistant for Dr. Carson and interned at the Perry Institution. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master's degree while starting her career. 

Crime and Punishment in Latin America: Before, During, and After Colonization 

Before the colonization of Latin America, there existed many indigenous civilizations with varying cultures and beliefs. Among these indigenous people were established norms and cultures surrounding crime and punishment. The Aztecs and the Incas are two notable indigenous civilizations in Latin America who had certain cultural values and stereotypes which governed their systems of crime and punishment. During the colonization of Latin America, the system of crime and punishment shifted due to the influence of the Spanish. The introduction of European principles of criminal justice during the age of colonization imposed new attitudes about crime and punishment to indigenous peoples. Ultimately, this led to the creation of a penal system comprised of principles and norms from both the indigenous and colonial/European cultures.

Emily Nguyen is a senior at Lander University. She is a double major in Criminology and Spanish. Her achievements included being a peer tutor, interning at the Clerk of Courts Office in Greenwood, and completing a semester long study abroad program in Madrid, Spain. She is also a member of Alpha Phi Sigma, the Criminal Justice Honor Society.

The Shadows of Motherhood: Exploring Postpartum Depression and Criminal Behavior

This research proposal aims to explore the potential link between postpartum depression (PPD) and criminal behavior, focusing on the psychological, social, and environmental factors that may contribute to criminal actions among affected individuals. These effects include severe mood disturbances, hormonal shifts, and psychological distress following childbirth. These effects also may contribute to criminal actions, including neglect, abuse, or even violent offenses. Utilizing a literature review, this study will analyze existing case studies, legal records, and psychological assessments of women diagnosed with PPD who have engaged in criminal activity. By analyzing these items, this research aims to identify risk factors and underlying mechanisms that may drive affected individuals toward criminal acts. Additionally, it evaluates the role of social support, mental health interventions, and legal policies in mitigating such risks. Understanding this connection can inform more effective prevention strategies, legal considerations, and mental health treatments for postpartum individuals at risk.  

Claire Riley is a senior criminology major at Lander University with minors in psychology and human services. While at Lander, Claire has been put on the Dean's and President's list throughout multiple semesters, a member of the honors college, a member of Order of Omega Greek Honor Society, and a member of Gamma Phi Beta Sorority in which she served as an executive counsel member. Claire also completed an internship during the summer of 2024 at the Greenwood City Police Department. After graduation, Claire wants to further her education by attending graduate school in hopes of joining the FBI or law enforcement some day.