Join Rowan College at Burlington County on Wednesday, June 17, at 1 pm, as we invite Professor of the Year Joseph Rizzo and his student Manhoor Zahid to discuss RCBC’s criminal justice program. 

Rizzo, who’s worked in correctional facilities as both an educator and warden, will share his experiences working in the field, why he chose to teach at RCBC and what sets our program apart from other schools. 

“We try to make our program as practical and worldly as we can. It’s important that students see and understand what they’re getting involved in and what they’re working with in this field,” Rizzo shared. “They visit halfway houses, policing museums, correctional facilities and are able to meet officers as part of their practical experiences. That’s the benefit of what we do here.”

Zahid, of Pakistani descent, is entering her senior year as part of RCBC and Rowan University’s 3+1 program. Although she initially started as a business major, she changed her mind during her first semester and decided that she wanted to follow in the footsteps of a law enforcement officer in her family. She nominated Rizzo for Professor of the Year due to his commitment to his students.

“He teaches in a way that you understand and takes you to places where you gain exposure to this field,” Zahid commented. 

With regard to the current unrest across our nation, Rizzo emphasized that it’s important to address topical issues and continue to have important conversations with students. 

“I believe there is - in some communities - a distrust of police. We talk a lot about this in our ‘Theories of Crime’ class. When you’re in a disadvantaged neighborhood, the distrust has boiled over for decades. I’m old enough to remember what occurred in the ‘60s with the same issues,” Rizzo said. “Policing has to improve. We try to make sure students understand that these issues need to be addressed.”

As always, we encourage viewers to submit questions and comments throughout the livestream. To learn more about RCBC’s 3+1 Law and Justice program, visit rcbc.edu/3plus1/law-justice. 

RCBC is also hosting a Healing our Communities discussion at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17 on Facebook Live that will feature Criminal Justice Instructor Dr. Amber Ciccanti, Criminal Justice Students Joseph Diaz and Collin Stewart, Burlington County leaders and law enforcement to have a candid conversation about systemic racism and how to achieve a just and equitable society. Click here for more information.