Administration
Damon Bullock
Co-Chair/Professor
Criminal Justice
Biography
Dr. Bullock serves as Department Co-Chair and works closely with students to support their academic progress and professional development. His scholarly interests span criminology, sociology, and public policy, with particular attention to how social structures and institutions shape crime and justice outcomes. His academic work includes contributions to interdisciplinary scholarship, such as a chapter on renewable energy policy in Las energías renovables y la transición energética justa, published by Universidad del Valle de Atemajac. He also engages with contemporary sociological and criminological research through ongoing scholarly activity, including work connected to The Power of Sociology, published by Sage Publications, and research on domestic violence offenders published by Bloomsbury Publishing.
Through his combined roles as instructor, advisor, and scholar, Dr. Bullock is committed to fostering critical thinking, academic integrity, and intellectual curiosity. His approach reflects a belief that criminal justice education should not only prepare students for careers, but also help them better understand the broader social forces that shape the justice system.
Education
• Ph.D. In Sociology, 2012, Texas Woman’s University
• M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Criminal Justice & Psychology), 2018, Western New Mexico University
• M.A. in Liberal Studies (Criminal Justice, Social Work, & Gerontology), 2005, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
• B.S. in Sociology, 2001, Minor in Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Courses Currently Taught
• Applied Liberal Arts and Sciences Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Community-Based Corrections
• Comparative Criminal Justice Systems
• Corrections System
• Criminal Justice and Minorities
• Criminal Justice Professional Skills
• Criminology
• Institutional Corrections
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Juvenile Justice
• Sociology of Race and Ethnicity
• Sociology of Sport
• Victimology
• Women and Crime
Scholarly Activity:
• Oddsson, G., Thomas, J. M., & Stuber, J. M. (2025). The power of sociology. Sage Publications. (Chapters 1 & 5)
• Elizabeth, L. (2025). Monster is too easy: A comprehensive, empirically grounded analysis of domestic violence offenders. Bloomsbury Publishing. (Chapters 1–12)
• Bullock, D., Casler, E., & Brown, A. J. (2024). Energías renovables: Perspectiva desde los Estados Unidos de América. In F. N. Baez (Ed.), Las energías renovables y la transición energética justa (pp. 173–194). Universidad del Valle de Atemajac.
• Ferris, K., & Stein, J. (2024). The real world: An introduction to sociology. W. W. Norton & Company. (Chapters 2 & 13)
• Zhao, Y., & Messner, S. (2024). Markets, politics, and crime in contemporary China. Cognella Academic Publishing. (Chapters 1–3)
Dr. Bullock serves as Department Co-Chair and works closely with students to support their academic progress and professional development. His scholarly interests span criminology, sociology, and public policy, with particular attention to how social structures and institutions shape crime and justice outcomes. His academic work includes contributions to interdisciplinary scholarship, such as a chapter on renewable energy policy in Las energías renovables y la transición energética justa, published by Universidad del Valle de Atemajac. He also engages with contemporary sociological and criminological research through ongoing scholarly activity, including work connected to The Power of Sociology, published by Sage Publications, and research on domestic violence offenders published by Bloomsbury Publishing.
Through his combined roles as instructor, advisor, and scholar, Dr. Bullock is committed to fostering critical thinking, academic integrity, and intellectual curiosity. His approach reflects a belief that criminal justice education should not only prepare students for careers, but also help them better understand the broader social forces that shape the justice system.
Education
• Ph.D. In Sociology, 2012, Texas Woman’s University
• M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies (Criminal Justice & Psychology), 2018, Western New Mexico University
• M.A. in Liberal Studies (Criminal Justice, Social Work, & Gerontology), 2005, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
• B.S. in Sociology, 2001, Minor in Biology, University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Courses Currently Taught
• Applied Liberal Arts and Sciences Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Community-Based Corrections
• Comparative Criminal Justice Systems
• Corrections System
• Criminal Justice and Minorities
• Criminal Justice Professional Skills
• Criminology
• Institutional Corrections
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Juvenile Justice
• Sociology of Race and Ethnicity
• Sociology of Sport
• Victimology
• Women and Crime
Scholarly Activity:
• Oddsson, G., Thomas, J. M., & Stuber, J. M. (2025). The power of sociology. Sage Publications. (Chapters 1 & 5)
• Elizabeth, L. (2025). Monster is too easy: A comprehensive, empirically grounded analysis of domestic violence offenders. Bloomsbury Publishing. (Chapters 1–12)
• Bullock, D., Casler, E., & Brown, A. J. (2024). Energías renovables: Perspectiva desde los Estados Unidos de América. In F. N. Baez (Ed.), Las energías renovables y la transición energética justa (pp. 173–194). Universidad del Valle de Atemajac.
• Ferris, K., & Stein, J. (2024). The real world: An introduction to sociology. W. W. Norton & Company. (Chapters 2 & 13)
• Zhao, Y., & Messner, S. (2024). Markets, politics, and crime in contemporary China. Cognella Academic Publishing. (Chapters 1–3)
Jennifer Johnston
Co-Chair/Associate Professor
Psychology
Biography
I am a media psychologist. In 2025 I received a New Mexico Ideas Network of Biomedical Research Excellence grant to write a book, The 80/20 Ratio, on the discovery of an underlying code that governs brain architecture and function. I was a visiting scholar at the University of Winchester, U.K., collaborating with David Giles on a study of YouTuber parasocial relationship and editing our new Research Handbook on the Social Psychology of the Media (2026). I have previously published on trauma and memory, mass shootings and media contagion, early viewing of pornography, and opioid overdose messaging. Most of these projects were driven by students’ interests and contributions, and informed by many years as a mental health counselor. The impact of my research has reached numerous media outlets, and I was invited to present at the U.S. President’s Federal Commission on School Safety, as well as colloquia in Canada and the U.K. I have chaired the IRB for ten years.
Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology, emphasis in Media, 2013, Fielding Graduate University
• M.A. in Counseling, 1996, Webster University
• B.S. in Psychology, 1994, Santa Clara University
Courses Currently Taught
• Developmental Psychology
• Human Sexuality
• Media Psychology
• Psychopathology
• Senior Seminar in Psychology
• Research Methods
I am a media psychologist. In 2025 I received a New Mexico Ideas Network of Biomedical Research Excellence grant to write a book, The 80/20 Ratio, on the discovery of an underlying code that governs brain architecture and function. I was a visiting scholar at the University of Winchester, U.K., collaborating with David Giles on a study of YouTuber parasocial relationship and editing our new Research Handbook on the Social Psychology of the Media (2026). I have previously published on trauma and memory, mass shootings and media contagion, early viewing of pornography, and opioid overdose messaging. Most of these projects were driven by students’ interests and contributions, and informed by many years as a mental health counselor. The impact of my research has reached numerous media outlets, and I was invited to present at the U.S. President’s Federal Commission on School Safety, as well as colloquia in Canada and the U.K. I have chaired the IRB for ten years.
Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology, emphasis in Media, 2013, Fielding Graduate University
• M.A. in Counseling, 1996, Webster University
• B.S. in Psychology, 1994, Santa Clara University
Courses Currently Taught
• Developmental Psychology
• Human Sexuality
• Media Psychology
• Psychopathology
• Senior Seminar in Psychology
• Research Methods
Faculty
Spenser Baca
Assistant Professor
Criminal Justice
Biography
Spenser Baca is an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Western New Mexico University and a licensed, practicing attorney in the State of New Mexico. A Silver City native and WNMU alumnus (B.S. in Sociology), he joined the faculty in the Spring of 2020.
Professor Baca earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. During his legal education, he was recognized for his academic work and commitment to the public interest as a Jonas Salk Fellow, a Marshall Brennan Constitutional Literacy Fellow, and a John P. Gismondi Fellow.
Before transitioning into academia, Professor Baca spent nearly a decade in private legal practice. He remains deeply involved in New Mexico’s legal and civic landscape, having served on the New Mexico Community Development Council and the Sixth Judicial District Judge Nominating Commission. He currently serves as a member of the New Mexico Supreme Court Commission on Equity and Justice.
At WNMU, Professor Baca focuses on the practical application of criminal and administrative law. He is dedicated to mentoring students and providing them with the professional and ethical foundations necessary for successful careers within the American legal system.
Education
• J.D. in Law, 2015, University of Pittsburgh School of Law
• B.A. in Sociology, 2012, Western New Mexico University
Courses Currently Taught
• Applied Liberal Arts and Sciences Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Administrative Law
• Constitutional Criminal Procedure
• Criminal Courts & Procedure
• Criminal Investigations
• Ethics and Liability
• Homeland Security
• Institutional Corrections
• Introduction to Border Security
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• LE Training Academy I – Law Block
Spenser Baca is an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Western New Mexico University and a licensed, practicing attorney in the State of New Mexico. A Silver City native and WNMU alumnus (B.S. in Sociology), he joined the faculty in the Spring of 2020.
Professor Baca earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. During his legal education, he was recognized for his academic work and commitment to the public interest as a Jonas Salk Fellow, a Marshall Brennan Constitutional Literacy Fellow, and a John P. Gismondi Fellow.
Before transitioning into academia, Professor Baca spent nearly a decade in private legal practice. He remains deeply involved in New Mexico’s legal and civic landscape, having served on the New Mexico Community Development Council and the Sixth Judicial District Judge Nominating Commission. He currently serves as a member of the New Mexico Supreme Court Commission on Equity and Justice.
At WNMU, Professor Baca focuses on the practical application of criminal and administrative law. He is dedicated to mentoring students and providing them with the professional and ethical foundations necessary for successful careers within the American legal system.
Education
• J.D. in Law, 2015, University of Pittsburgh School of Law
• B.A. in Sociology, 2012, Western New Mexico University
Courses Currently Taught
• Applied Liberal Arts and Sciences Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Administrative Law
• Constitutional Criminal Procedure
• Criminal Courts & Procedure
• Criminal Investigations
• Ethics and Liability
• Homeland Security
• Institutional Corrections
• Introduction to Border Security
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• LE Training Academy I – Law Block
Wen-chi Chen
Professor
Psychology
Biography
Dr. Chen has taught in higher education since 2005. Her Ph.D. in Family Studies and Human Services prepared her to serve as a family life educator and provided advanced training in family theories, family psychology, conflict resolution, human services, program evaluation, and violence prevention and intervention. Her master’s degree in counseling equipped her with expertise in abnormal psychology, interpersonal psychology, and mental health, along with training in culturally competent practice.
With training in mental health counseling and family life education, her research interests revolve around interpersonal psychology, particularly the need for influence and closeness in intimate relationships and its link to relationship satisfaction. Her current research interests examine the tendency for interpersonal victimhood and its relation to narcissistic traits, as well as its association with the quality of interpersonal and couple relationships.
Education
• Ph.D. in Family Studies and Human Services, 2011, Kansas State University
• M.S. in Counseling, 2004, Pittsburg State University
• B.A. in Psychology, 1999, Brigham Young University – Hawaii
Courses Currently Taught
• Introduction to Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Human Motivation
• Interpersonal Psychology
• Psychopathology
• The Family: A Psychological Perspective
Dr. Chen has taught in higher education since 2005. Her Ph.D. in Family Studies and Human Services prepared her to serve as a family life educator and provided advanced training in family theories, family psychology, conflict resolution, human services, program evaluation, and violence prevention and intervention. Her master’s degree in counseling equipped her with expertise in abnormal psychology, interpersonal psychology, and mental health, along with training in culturally competent practice.
With training in mental health counseling and family life education, her research interests revolve around interpersonal psychology, particularly the need for influence and closeness in intimate relationships and its link to relationship satisfaction. Her current research interests examine the tendency for interpersonal victimhood and its relation to narcissistic traits, as well as its association with the quality of interpersonal and couple relationships.
Education
• Ph.D. in Family Studies and Human Services, 2011, Kansas State University
• M.S. in Counseling, 2004, Pittsburg State University
• B.A. in Psychology, 1999, Brigham Young University – Hawaii
Courses Currently Taught
• Introduction to Psychology
• Health Psychology
• Human Motivation
• Interpersonal Psychology
• Psychopathology
• The Family: A Psychological Perspective
Mark Chu
Professor
Psychology
Biography
My research interests include social support, sexism, prejudice, and attachment styles. I’ve constantly mentored undergraduate and graduate students on their research in various topics in psychological sciences, leading to their presenting the results at national conferences. Currently, I teach social statistics, social psychology, the psychology of prejudice, the psychology of gender, brain and behavior, as well as other electives. I was a state representative for the Southwest Psychological Association (SWPA) between 2014-2017. Now, I serve as a council representative for the Western Psychological Association (WPA).
Education
• Ph.D. in Social Psychology, 2011, Kansas State University
• M.S., in Social Psychology, 2007, Kansas State University
• B.A. in Psychology, 1998, Brigham Young University – Hawaii
Courses Currently Taught
• Brain and Behavior
• Education and Careers in Psychology
• Introduction to Psychology
• Lifespan Personality Development
• Psychology of Gender
• Psychology of Prejudice
• Social Psychology
• Social Statistics
My research interests include social support, sexism, prejudice, and attachment styles. I’ve constantly mentored undergraduate and graduate students on their research in various topics in psychological sciences, leading to their presenting the results at national conferences. Currently, I teach social statistics, social psychology, the psychology of prejudice, the psychology of gender, brain and behavior, as well as other electives. I was a state representative for the Southwest Psychological Association (SWPA) between 2014-2017. Now, I serve as a council representative for the Western Psychological Association (WPA).
Education
• Ph.D. in Social Psychology, 2011, Kansas State University
• M.S., in Social Psychology, 2007, Kansas State University
• B.A. in Psychology, 1998, Brigham Young University – Hawaii
Courses Currently Taught
• Brain and Behavior
• Education and Careers in Psychology
• Introduction to Psychology
• Lifespan Personality Development
• Psychology of Gender
• Psychology of Prejudice
• Social Psychology
• Social Statistics
Jenny Coleman
Professor
Psychology
Biography
Dr. Coleman has extensive experience in curriculum development and teaching for on-ground and online programs. At WNMU, she has been a pioneer in both online learning and student engagement in research, scholarship, and creative activities. She was a founding creator of the campus-wide Student Research Symposium (’04), and the originator of Student Research and Professional Development Funds (’12), now in its second decade supporting student scholarship, conference participation, summer research and more.
A two-time Professor of the Year, recipient of Best Online Course Design and Faculty Research Award, Dr. Coleman is widely recognized. Her scholarly interests include such things as mentoring, belonging, and academic impostor phenomenon. She is particularly committed to delivering high-impact practices, such as undergraduate research (link to 2022 book), to all learners. She serves on the Council on Undergraduate Research and is an associate editor for the peer-reviewed journal The Scholarship and Practice of Undergraduate Research.
Education
• Ph.D., 1998, Psychology, University of New Hampshire (UNH) Specialization in Cognition, Memory and Discourse Processing
• M.A., 2019, Interdisciplinary Studies, Art and English, WNMU
• M.B.A., 2018, Business Management, WNMU, Delta Mu Delta inductee
• M.A., 2017, Counseling, WNMU
• M.S.T., 1998, Concentration in College Teaching, Preparing Future Faculty Program, UNH
• M.A., 1994, Psychology, Specialization in Sensation and Perception, Human Vision, UNH
• B.A., 1992, Psychology, SUNY College at Geneseo, Psi Chi Graduate
Courses Currently Taught
• Cognition
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Industrial Organizational Psychology
• Positive Psychology
• Psychology of Sports and Exercise
• Teaching of Psychology
• Theories of Personality
Sample publications:
• 2025 - Academic Impostor Syndrome in students and academic staff: Navigating the pathway to confidence and control. International Federation of National Teaching Fellows e-book. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FC2WCR4J
• 2023 - Working with students and artificial intelligence to collaboratively draft the future work of mentors. The Chronicle of Mentoring & Coaching, 7 (15), 606-611.
• 2022 - Undergraduate Research in Online, Virtual, and Hybrid Courses: Proactive Practices for Distant Students. Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.
Dr. Coleman has extensive experience in curriculum development and teaching for on-ground and online programs. At WNMU, she has been a pioneer in both online learning and student engagement in research, scholarship, and creative activities. She was a founding creator of the campus-wide Student Research Symposium (’04), and the originator of Student Research and Professional Development Funds (’12), now in its second decade supporting student scholarship, conference participation, summer research and more.
A two-time Professor of the Year, recipient of Best Online Course Design and Faculty Research Award, Dr. Coleman is widely recognized. Her scholarly interests include such things as mentoring, belonging, and academic impostor phenomenon. She is particularly committed to delivering high-impact practices, such as undergraduate research (link to 2022 book), to all learners. She serves on the Council on Undergraduate Research and is an associate editor for the peer-reviewed journal The Scholarship and Practice of Undergraduate Research.
Education
• Ph.D., 1998, Psychology, University of New Hampshire (UNH) Specialization in Cognition, Memory and Discourse Processing
• M.A., 2019, Interdisciplinary Studies, Art and English, WNMU
• M.B.A., 2018, Business Management, WNMU, Delta Mu Delta inductee
• M.A., 2017, Counseling, WNMU
• M.S.T., 1998, Concentration in College Teaching, Preparing Future Faculty Program, UNH
• M.A., 1994, Psychology, Specialization in Sensation and Perception, Human Vision, UNH
• B.A., 1992, Psychology, SUNY College at Geneseo, Psi Chi Graduate
Courses Currently Taught
• Cognition
• Developmental Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Industrial Organizational Psychology
• Positive Psychology
• Psychology of Sports and Exercise
• Teaching of Psychology
• Theories of Personality
Sample publications:
• 2025 - Academic Impostor Syndrome in students and academic staff: Navigating the pathway to confidence and control. International Federation of National Teaching Fellows e-book. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FC2WCR4J
• 2023 - Working with students and artificial intelligence to collaboratively draft the future work of mentors. The Chronicle of Mentoring & Coaching, 7 (15), 606-611.
• 2022 - Undergraduate Research in Online, Virtual, and Hybrid Courses: Proactive Practices for Distant Students. Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.
David Gorman
Assistant Professor
Criminal Justice
Biography
I have practiced as an attorney in Silver City for over 17 years. During this time, I served as a Guardian ad Litem for abused and neglected children for over ten years. I have volunteered at pro bono clinics organized by the Sixth Judicial District and provided free legal assistance to many community members. I began teaching at Western New Mexico University in January of 2023. I look forward to continuing to be involved with WNMU and finding new ways to serve our community. My research interests include sentencing disparities, mental health in the criminal justice system, and human/sex trafficking on the border. I am committed to collaboratively preparing students for any career path they choose within the criminal justice field. Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my wife and our two sons. We enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and exploring areas across the Southwest. We often travel to San Carlos, Mexico, to fish in saltwater, snorkel, and relax on the beach. I also enjoy watching movies, history documentaries, and sports such as football and basketball.
Education
• J.D., 2005, Gonzaga University School of Law
• B.S. in City and Regional Planning, New Mexico State University
Courses Currently Taught
• American Crime Policy
• Criminal Justice and Minorities
• Criminal Justice Resources on the Web
• Corrections Law
• Criminal Courts & Procedure
• Criminal Law
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• New Mexico Law
• Police and Society
I have practiced as an attorney in Silver City for over 17 years. During this time, I served as a Guardian ad Litem for abused and neglected children for over ten years. I have volunteered at pro bono clinics organized by the Sixth Judicial District and provided free legal assistance to many community members. I began teaching at Western New Mexico University in January of 2023. I look forward to continuing to be involved with WNMU and finding new ways to serve our community. My research interests include sentencing disparities, mental health in the criminal justice system, and human/sex trafficking on the border. I am committed to collaboratively preparing students for any career path they choose within the criminal justice field. Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my wife and our two sons. We enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and exploring areas across the Southwest. We often travel to San Carlos, Mexico, to fish in saltwater, snorkel, and relax on the beach. I also enjoy watching movies, history documentaries, and sports such as football and basketball.
Education
• J.D., 2005, Gonzaga University School of Law
• B.S. in City and Regional Planning, New Mexico State University
Courses Currently Taught
• American Crime Policy
• Criminal Justice and Minorities
• Criminal Justice Resources on the Web
• Corrections Law
• Criminal Courts & Procedure
• Criminal Law
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• New Mexico Law
• Police and Society
Gil Najar
Director of Police Academy/Professor
Criminal Justice
Biography
Public safety leader with over thirty year's criminal justice with twenty-five years of police officer field experience including command and executive level experience. Over thirty years experience in training ad education of police officers with experience in developing and executing organizational programs to accomplish law enforcement mission, goals, and objectives. Command experience in human resource management, policies and procedure development; productivity measurement, processes for personnel administration and resource development; problem-solving techniques, identifying areas of vicarious liability; implementing planning processes including strategic planning and development and job task analysis. Financial and Personnel Management: Preparation/Execution of organizational budget; set sound fiscal management and budgeting principles, divisional goals and objectives, personnel selection, training, development, promotional requirements; set/execute strategic/project management policies/procedures. Police Academy Management: NM Certified Police Officer (79-0273-P), NM certified General Police Instructor since1985, including specific specialized basic police academy topics and Master Instructor certification in Basic Instructor Development. Experienced in police academy management and administration. Director of Albuquerque Police Department Recruiting, Selection and Police Academy from 1998-2001. Director of WNMU Police academy 2012 to present. P.O.S.T. Management: Deputy-Director of the NM Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) authority known as the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy under the NM Department of Public Safety. Responsible for oversight of nine regional police academies, providing basic academy and telecommunicator curriculum review and development, instructor training and certification and training course accreditation and classroom instruction in NM from 2004-2012. Experienced in operating and managing the law enforcement and public safety telecommunicator training, certification and maintenance of certification programs.
Education
• Ph.D. General Psychology with emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 2023, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, Arizona
• Master’s Degree - MBA 1981, New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, New Mexico
• Bachelors of Science Degree Criminology 1978, University of Albuquerque, Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Executive School of Staff and Command, Graduate 90th Session, 1995 - 120 hours, • Northwestern University School of Staff and Command, Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Leadership in Police Organizations, Graduate of the 2nd Session, 2009 - 120 hours, International • Association of Chiefs of Police Center for Leadership Excellence
Courses Currently Taught
• Pre-Academy Fitness & Testing
• Law Enforcement Training Academy I
• Law Enforcement Training Academy I
• Police and Society
• Criminal Investigation
• Police Administration and Management
• Community Policing
Public safety leader with over thirty year's criminal justice with twenty-five years of police officer field experience including command and executive level experience. Over thirty years experience in training ad education of police officers with experience in developing and executing organizational programs to accomplish law enforcement mission, goals, and objectives. Command experience in human resource management, policies and procedure development; productivity measurement, processes for personnel administration and resource development; problem-solving techniques, identifying areas of vicarious liability; implementing planning processes including strategic planning and development and job task analysis. Financial and Personnel Management: Preparation/Execution of organizational budget; set sound fiscal management and budgeting principles, divisional goals and objectives, personnel selection, training, development, promotional requirements; set/execute strategic/project management policies/procedures. Police Academy Management: NM Certified Police Officer (79-0273-P), NM certified General Police Instructor since1985, including specific specialized basic police academy topics and Master Instructor certification in Basic Instructor Development. Experienced in police academy management and administration. Director of Albuquerque Police Department Recruiting, Selection and Police Academy from 1998-2001. Director of WNMU Police academy 2012 to present. P.O.S.T. Management: Deputy-Director of the NM Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) authority known as the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy under the NM Department of Public Safety. Responsible for oversight of nine regional police academies, providing basic academy and telecommunicator curriculum review and development, instructor training and certification and training course accreditation and classroom instruction in NM from 2004-2012. Experienced in operating and managing the law enforcement and public safety telecommunicator training, certification and maintenance of certification programs.
Education
• Ph.D. General Psychology with emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 2023, Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, Arizona
• Master’s Degree - MBA 1981, New Mexico Highlands University, Las Vegas, New Mexico
• Bachelors of Science Degree Criminology 1978, University of Albuquerque, Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Executive School of Staff and Command, Graduate 90th Session, 1995 - 120 hours, • Northwestern University School of Staff and Command, Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Leadership in Police Organizations, Graduate of the 2nd Session, 2009 - 120 hours, International • Association of Chiefs of Police Center for Leadership Excellence
Courses Currently Taught
• Pre-Academy Fitness & Testing
• Law Enforcement Training Academy I
• Law Enforcement Training Academy I
• Police and Society
• Criminal Investigation
• Police Administration and Management
• Community Policing
David Swackhamer
Assistant Professor
Psychology
Biography
My current research is directed toward a phenomenon known as “Stereotype Threat” in which an individual’s performance suffers when made cognizant of potential negative stereotypes. I intend to complete my dissertation on this topic. As an undergraduate and, later, as a graduate student, I focused on the impulse-control disorder known as “Trichotillomania” in which individuals have a compulsive desire to pull out their own hair from a single or variety of bodily locations. My academic interests center on psychology. In specific, social psychology (especially, conformity, obedience, and bystander apathy) as well as psychopathology (particularly, impulse control disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders) intrigue me. Outside of psychology, my academic interests encompass meteorology, geography, history, and world/national politics. Apart from school, I enjoy hiking, mountain cycling, fishing, and camping. I also love working with various aspects associated with computers – hardware, software, and programming. Also, I regularly read news from a variety of sources (local, national, and international) in an effort to stay informed with occurrences that impact us all.
Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology, Grand Canyon University
• M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies, 2012, Western New Mexico University
• B.A. in History & Psychology, 2010, Western New Mexico University & University of Arizona
Courses Currently Taught
• Developmental Psychology
• Introduction to Psychology
• Psychology of Learning
• Social Psychology
My current research is directed toward a phenomenon known as “Stereotype Threat” in which an individual’s performance suffers when made cognizant of potential negative stereotypes. I intend to complete my dissertation on this topic. As an undergraduate and, later, as a graduate student, I focused on the impulse-control disorder known as “Trichotillomania” in which individuals have a compulsive desire to pull out their own hair from a single or variety of bodily locations. My academic interests center on psychology. In specific, social psychology (especially, conformity, obedience, and bystander apathy) as well as psychopathology (particularly, impulse control disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders) intrigue me. Outside of psychology, my academic interests encompass meteorology, geography, history, and world/national politics. Apart from school, I enjoy hiking, mountain cycling, fishing, and camping. I also love working with various aspects associated with computers – hardware, software, and programming. Also, I regularly read news from a variety of sources (local, national, and international) in an effort to stay informed with occurrences that impact us all.
Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology, Grand Canyon University
• M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies, 2012, Western New Mexico University
• B.A. in History & Psychology, 2010, Western New Mexico University & University of Arizona
Courses Currently Taught
• Developmental Psychology
• Introduction to Psychology
• Psychology of Learning
• Social Psychology
Adjunct
Sarah Balderas
Adjunct Faculty
Criminal Justice
Biography
Sarah Balderas was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas. She attended Bishop Carroll High School, received her bachelor’s degree from Newman University as a student-athlete, and obtained her Juris Doctorate from the Washburn University School of Law. Sarah has been practicing law since September of 2018. She works alongside her cousin, Angela Balderas, at Balderas Legal Group, LLC, specializing in immigration law. Currently, she is a board member of the nonprofit organizations Children 1st, Salud + Bienestar, and the Wichita Public Library. In her free time, she golfs with her family every weekend.
Education
• J.D. in Law, Washburn University School of Law, 2018
Courses Currently Taught
• Immigration Law
Sarah Balderas was born and raised in Wichita, Kansas. She attended Bishop Carroll High School, received her bachelor’s degree from Newman University as a student-athlete, and obtained her Juris Doctorate from the Washburn University School of Law. Sarah has been practicing law since September of 2018. She works alongside her cousin, Angela Balderas, at Balderas Legal Group, LLC, specializing in immigration law. Currently, she is a board member of the nonprofit organizations Children 1st, Salud + Bienestar, and the Wichita Public Library. In her free time, she golfs with her family every weekend.
Education
• J.D. in Law, Washburn University School of Law, 2018
Courses Currently Taught
• Immigration Law
Brenda Burton
Adjunct Faculty
Criminal Justice
Biography
Brenda Burton has served as an Adjunct Instructor since 2010, teaching White-Collar Crime and Organized Crime. She holds an M.S. in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Missouri. She serves as an adjunct instructor at both Western New Mexico University and the College of Southern Nevada. She was an FBI Special Agent from 1991 until 2000, holding assignments in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and McAllen, Texas. Her area of expertise was white-collar crime investigations, including health care fraud, bank fraud, mail fraud, and wire fraud. Working in two smaller offices allowed Brenda to assist with a variety of cases, including bank robberies, fugitives, and drug cases. Her specialized training included crisis negotiation, hate crimes, health care fraud, financial fraud, and bankruptcy fraud. She provided training in health care fraud matters at FBI training events. Brenda also served as a media spokesperson for both the Tulsa and McAllen offices. Brenda and her FBI colleagues in Tulsa were instrumental in the investigation following the Oklahoma City Bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in 1995.
Education
• M.S. in Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, 2008
• B.A. in Journalism, University of New Mexico, 1987
Courses Currently Taught
• Organized Crime
• White Collar Crime
Brenda Burton has served as an Adjunct Instructor since 2010, teaching White-Collar Crime and Organized Crime. She holds an M.S. in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Missouri. She serves as an adjunct instructor at both Western New Mexico University and the College of Southern Nevada. She was an FBI Special Agent from 1991 until 2000, holding assignments in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and McAllen, Texas. Her area of expertise was white-collar crime investigations, including health care fraud, bank fraud, mail fraud, and wire fraud. Working in two smaller offices allowed Brenda to assist with a variety of cases, including bank robberies, fugitives, and drug cases. Her specialized training included crisis negotiation, hate crimes, health care fraud, financial fraud, and bankruptcy fraud. She provided training in health care fraud matters at FBI training events. Brenda also served as a media spokesperson for both the Tulsa and McAllen offices. Brenda and her FBI colleagues in Tulsa were instrumental in the investigation following the Oklahoma City Bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in 1995.
Education
• M.S. in Criminal Justice, University of Central Missouri, 2008
• B.A. in Journalism, University of New Mexico, 1987
Courses Currently Taught
• Organized Crime
• White Collar Crime
B. Scott Burton
Adjunct Faculty
Criminal Justice
Biography
Professor Burton has been an adjunct faculty member at WNMU since 2009. He is retired from a 25-year combined career with the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the U.S. District Courts (assigned as a Sr. U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Officer in Santa Fe and Albuquerque). In total, Professor Burton held 10 assignments across the United States in his federal career.
In addition to WNMU, he previously earned tenure at the College of Southern Nevada and was conferred Professor Emeritus status in December 2025. Also, Scott has teaching experience at Missouri State University, Drury University, and Dallas Christian College. He has been teaching college and university criminal justice classes since 2006.
In addition to his federal law enforcement career, he has experience working as a facility director and warden in the private prison industry. Scott is a former member of the State of New Mexico's Adult Parole Board. He was a Commissioner on the State of Nevada's Sentencing Commission from 2017-2019. Professor Burton served as the Director of the Southern Desert Regional Police Academy, that is linked to CSN, from 2020-2021.
Professor Burton’s academic portfolio emphasizes ethics, corrections, community corrections, correctional administration, criminology, and juvenile justice. He is the author of a criminal justice ethics textbook, now in its fifth edition, which has previously been associated with the CSN Criminal Justice Department’s ethics course that he developed several years ago.
Scott, his wife, and their West Highland terrier enjoy hiking the mountains of New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and West Texas (Big Bend National Park).
nd Albuquerque). Scott has been teaching college/university criminal justice classes since 2006. In addition to WNMU, he is a full-time tenured Professor of Criminal Justice at the College of Southern Nevada. He also has teaching experience at Missouri State University, Drury University, and Dallas Christian College. In addition to his federal law enforcement career, he has experience worked as a facility director and warden in the private prison industry post retirement. Scott is a former member of the State of New Mexico's Adult Parole Board. More recently, he was a Commissioner on the State of Nevada's Sentencing Commission from 2017-2019. In 2021, Scott served as the Director of the Southern Desert Regional Police Academy that is linked to the College of Southern Nevada. Scott, his wife, and their West Highland terrier enjoy hiking the mountains of New Mexico, Arizona, and Nevada.
Education
• M.S., Central Missouri State University, Criminal Justice
• B.A., William Jewell College (Liberty, MO), Communication
Courses Currently Taught
• CJUS 462/562, Corrections Methods and Procedures
• CJUS 362, Community Resources in Corrections
• CJUS 361, Community-Based Corrections
• CJUS 260, Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
Professor Burton has been an adjunct faculty member at WNMU since 2009. He is retired from a 25-year combined career with the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the U.S. District Courts (assigned as a Sr. U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Officer in Santa Fe and Albuquerque). In total, Professor Burton held 10 assignments across the United States in his federal career.
In addition to WNMU, he previously earned tenure at the College of Southern Nevada and was conferred Professor Emeritus status in December 2025. Also, Scott has teaching experience at Missouri State University, Drury University, and Dallas Christian College. He has been teaching college and university criminal justice classes since 2006.
In addition to his federal law enforcement career, he has experience working as a facility director and warden in the private prison industry. Scott is a former member of the State of New Mexico's Adult Parole Board. He was a Commissioner on the State of Nevada's Sentencing Commission from 2017-2019. Professor Burton served as the Director of the Southern Desert Regional Police Academy, that is linked to CSN, from 2020-2021.
Professor Burton’s academic portfolio emphasizes ethics, corrections, community corrections, correctional administration, criminology, and juvenile justice. He is the author of a criminal justice ethics textbook, now in its fifth edition, which has previously been associated with the CSN Criminal Justice Department’s ethics course that he developed several years ago.
Scott, his wife, and their West Highland terrier enjoy hiking the mountains of New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and West Texas (Big Bend National Park).
nd Albuquerque). Scott has been teaching college/university criminal justice classes since 2006. In addition to WNMU, he is a full-time tenured Professor of Criminal Justice at the College of Southern Nevada. He also has teaching experience at Missouri State University, Drury University, and Dallas Christian College. In addition to his federal law enforcement career, he has experience worked as a facility director and warden in the private prison industry post retirement. Scott is a former member of the State of New Mexico's Adult Parole Board. More recently, he was a Commissioner on the State of Nevada's Sentencing Commission from 2017-2019. In 2021, Scott served as the Director of the Southern Desert Regional Police Academy that is linked to the College of Southern Nevada. Scott, his wife, and their West Highland terrier enjoy hiking the mountains of New Mexico, Arizona, and Nevada.
Education
• M.S., Central Missouri State University, Criminal Justice
• B.A., William Jewell College (Liberty, MO), Communication
Courses Currently Taught
• CJUS 462/562, Corrections Methods and Procedures
• CJUS 362, Community Resources in Corrections
• CJUS 361, Community-Based Corrections
• CJUS 260, Juvenile Justice and Delinquency
William Corbett
Adjunct Faculty
Criminal Justice
Biography
I received a B.A. in Political Science and a MPA from the Pennsylvania State University. Following graduation, I worked as a family law hearing officer for the Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania prior to working as a management consultant for the Alexander Proudfoot Company. I then obtained a J.D. degree from the University of Illinois and worked as a civil litigator in California for 13 years. Since 2008, I have taught in the areas of business law and ethics, criminal justice, and political science. I previously have served as a facilitator/mediator for civil litigation cases filed in the Third Judicial District of New Mexico and currently serve pro bono with the New Mexico Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program.
Education
• 1975 B.A., Political Science, Pennsylvania State University
• 1979 MPA, Master of Public Administration, Pennsylvania State University
• 1984 J. D., Juris Doctorate, University of Illinois
Courses Currently Taught
• Business Ethics
• Business Law I
• Community Policing
• Forensic Law
• Information Systems for Law Enforcement
• Police Administration and Management
• Response to Terrorism and Natural Disasters
• Social Responsibility and Business Ethics
I received a B.A. in Political Science and a MPA from the Pennsylvania State University. Following graduation, I worked as a family law hearing officer for the Court of Common Pleas in Pennsylvania prior to working as a management consultant for the Alexander Proudfoot Company. I then obtained a J.D. degree from the University of Illinois and worked as a civil litigator in California for 13 years. Since 2008, I have taught in the areas of business law and ethics, criminal justice, and political science. I previously have served as a facilitator/mediator for civil litigation cases filed in the Third Judicial District of New Mexico and currently serve pro bono with the New Mexico Judges and Lawyers Assistance Program.
Education
• 1975 B.A., Political Science, Pennsylvania State University
• 1979 MPA, Master of Public Administration, Pennsylvania State University
• 1984 J. D., Juris Doctorate, University of Illinois
Courses Currently Taught
• Business Ethics
• Business Law I
• Community Policing
• Forensic Law
• Information Systems for Law Enforcement
• Police Administration and Management
• Response to Terrorism and Natural Disasters
• Social Responsibility and Business Ethics
Sharon Gough
Adjunct Faculty
Psychology
Dr. Gough is an experienced psychology educator and licensed clinician who has served as an adjunct faculty member at Western New Mexico University since 2005. She has extensive clinical experience providing psychotherapy, trauma treatment, and substance abuse counseling to diverse populations, including military personnel, veterans, and their families. Dr. Gough is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependence Counselor, bringing valuable clinical expertise to her teaching of psychology.
Education
• 2009, Ph.D., Academic Psychology, Walden University
• 2001, MA, Community Counseling, Rollins College
• 1989, BA, Public Justice, State University of New York
Course Currently Taught
• Introduction to Psychology
Education
• 2009, Ph.D., Academic Psychology, Walden University
• 2001, MA, Community Counseling, Rollins College
• 1989, BA, Public Justice, State University of New York
Course Currently Taught
• Introduction to Psychology
Codie Place
Adjunct Faculty
Criminal Justice/Psychology
Biography
Dr. Place has 15 years of experience in teaching and curriculum development as well as five years of work experience in law enforcement. She is trained in fraud examination and trauma-informed practices. Additionally, she holds a certification as a Quality Matters Higher Education reviewer.
Education
• Psy.D. in Criminology and Justice Studies, University of Arizona Global Campus, 2021
• M.A. in Criminal Justice, American Military University, 2014
• M.S. in Educational Psychology, Capella University, 2007
• B.S. in Applied Management, National American University, 2004
Courses Currently Taught
• Criminal Psychology
• Profiling Violent Crimes
• Psychopathology
• Sex Crimes and Serial Killers
• Substance Abuse and Crime
Dr. Place has 15 years of experience in teaching and curriculum development as well as five years of work experience in law enforcement. She is trained in fraud examination and trauma-informed practices. Additionally, she holds a certification as a Quality Matters Higher Education reviewer.
Education
• Psy.D. in Criminology and Justice Studies, University of Arizona Global Campus, 2021
• M.A. in Criminal Justice, American Military University, 2014
• M.S. in Educational Psychology, Capella University, 2007
• B.S. in Applied Management, National American University, 2004
Courses Currently Taught
• Criminal Psychology
• Profiling Violent Crimes
• Psychopathology
• Sex Crimes and Serial Killers
• Substance Abuse and Crime
Rebecca Ewing
Adjunct Faculty
Psychology
Biography
Dr. Ewing has extensive expertise in teaching, curriculum development, and online instruction. She has taught a wide range of undergraduate and graduate psychology courses in face-to-face, hybrid, and online formats. Dr. Ewing is committed to student-centered teaching and is known for creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that support diverse learners, including nontraditional and underserved students. Her professional experience includes curriculum design, online course development, faculty mentoring, and Quality Matters course review.
Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology, Walden University, 2012
• M.S. in Psychology, Walden University, 2006
• B.A. in Psychology, Mercer University, 1997
Courses Currently Taught
• Introduction to Psychology
• Cultural Psychology
• Senior Seminar in Psychology
Dr. Ewing has extensive expertise in teaching, curriculum development, and online instruction. She has taught a wide range of undergraduate and graduate psychology courses in face-to-face, hybrid, and online formats. Dr. Ewing is committed to student-centered teaching and is known for creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that support diverse learners, including nontraditional and underserved students. Her professional experience includes curriculum design, online course development, faculty mentoring, and Quality Matters course review.
Education
• Ph.D. in Psychology, Walden University, 2012
• M.S. in Psychology, Walden University, 2006
• B.A. in Psychology, Mercer University, 1997
Courses Currently Taught
• Introduction to Psychology
• Cultural Psychology
• Senior Seminar in Psychology
Staff
Merritt Reed
Office Manager
Behavioral Sciences
Dominique Williams
Graduate Scholar
Behavioral Sciences
Dominique joined the School of Behavioral Sciences department in January 2024. She graduated from WNMU with honors in psychology and is currently working on her master’s degree in counseling with a concentration in School Psychology.