Scholarship Recipients

Zak Carr is currently pursuing his PhD in Forensic Science from Oklahoma State University with a specialization in Arson, Explosives, Firearms and Toolmarks Investigations. Zak has over 16 years of experience as a firearm and toolmark examiner and is employed at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Criminalistics Laboratory in Olathe, KS.  He has previously completed a BS degree in Forensic Science from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master’s of Public Administration degree from the University of Kansas.

Zak’s research interests focus on 3D metrology. He is an active member of the AFTE Committee for the Advancement of the Science of Firearm & Tool Mark Identification, the OSAC Novel Technology task group, the Open Forensic Metrology Consortium, and the Cadre Forensics research team. Zak aims to perform research that leverages 3D technology to support the firearm and toolmark discipline; both through foundational research and through the implementation of 3D technology into evidence examination workflows.

Mark Wallace is a first-generation university graduate, and currently holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Belize (Magna Cum Laude). His work in forensic science began as a volunteer at the Belize National Forensic Science Service in 2012. He was eventually hired to work in the Serology Unit of the crime lab, but in 2013 transitioned over to the Firearms Unit to become the labs only full-time IBIS technician. As the IBIS tech he made significant contributions populating Belize’s IBIS database, and to date has discovered over 200 hits on the system, to include 4 international hits via the Interpol Ballistic Information Network (IBIN).

In 2017 Mark and other members of the Firearms Unit completed training in Firearm Examination and Identification with AFTE’s very own Dr. James E. Hamby. In 2019 he was promoted to the post of Firearm Examiner, and has been serving his country in that capacity since. Mark is currently on track to complete a Master of Science degree in Forensic Sciences from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland in 2022. After completing his MSc, he plans to continue working as a Firearm Examiner in Belize, and to eventually undertake a PhD doing research in that field.

Kinaysha Collazo is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Forensic Science with a track on Physical Analysis at the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). She completed her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus.

She volunteers at the VCU Department of Forensic Science supporting community service activities. The program provides middle school and high school students with hands-on activities, open houses, and career days, to introduce them to science careers. Her background experience includes research and internships in biochemistry, chemistry and physics. She is an active member of the American Chemical Society, National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the Golden Key International Honour Society.

After pursuing her master’s degree, she plans on working in a criminalistics laboratory as a firearm and toolmark examiner, to analyze physical evidence and support criminal investigations. She is certain that by pursuing graduate studies and incorporating service through her career, it is possible to make a positive impact in the community and inspire younger students to achieve their goals.

Sophia McCarty attended California Lutheran University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She currently attends California State University at Los Angeles and is pursuing a Master of Science degree in Criminalistics. Before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, McCarty was scheduled to begin volunteering for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in the Biology unit and she hopes to return to that position. For Summer 2020, she is slated to intern with the University of Southern California Upward Bound Program, mentoring high school students interested in learning about forensic science as a profession. Ultimately, McCarty’s goal is to work for the Los Angeles Police Department as a Criminalist. Sophia states: “I hope to one day contribute to the legacy of those before me, to protect and serve in an ongoing effort to leave this world better than I found it.”

Nicole Groshon graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science from Loyola University Chicago in May 2015. Just before graduation, she was recruited by the microscopy laboratory, McCrone Associates located in Westmont, IL. In their cleanroom, Nicole was able to perfect her techniques in sample preparation while working a variety of projects involving gunshot residue, controlled substances, pharmaceutical and FDA casework. Nicole returned to school to earn her Master’s in Forensic Science at the University of Illinois at Chicago in August of 2018. While attending a Firearms and Tool Mark intensive course at the Illinois State Police through the program at UIC, Nicole became fascinated with the art of bullet and cartridge case comparison. Earlier this year she was offered an internship opportunity with Cadre Forensics in Chicago, IL. As their intern, she is working with their TopMatch-3D High-Capacity scanner to measure 3D surface topographies of cartridge case and bullet test fires. These scans are part of Cadre’s research collection and are being used to advance their research and training programs. Nicole looks forward to completing her Master's thesis research which will investigate the effects of lacquer on the toolmark transfer process. Her ultimate career goal is to either work as a Forensic Scientist at a state laboratory or with the FBI.

Supatsara Ditkhloy is currently enrolled in the graduate program in Forensic Science at Syracuse University, majoring in Crime Scene Investigation and Firearm Identification. Before coming to the United States, she graduated from the Royal Thai Police Cadet Academy where she majored in Transnational Crime. After graduating, she worked for three years in the Bangkok Police Department as an interrogation officer. During that time she broadened her education by obtaining her first masters degree in international relations. Her work as an interrogation officer and commitment to police work sparked her interest in Forensic Science.  

More recently, she interned with the North Carolina State Crime Labs Firearm Unit during her Spring Semester 2019. There, she gathered information for her graduate research project which focuses on subclass characteristics in Firearm Identification. She is planning to graduate in the Summer of  2019 with a Masters degree and Advanced Certificate of Study in Firearm and Toolmark Examination.

She will be returning to Thailand later this year to the Central Police Forensic Science unit where she has earned a promotion as a firearm examiner. She will use the tools learned from her advanced degree to further develop the education and technology of the firearm examiner community in Thailand.

Alexandra Wagner received her Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry at the University of Cincinnati in May 2015. During her undergraduate studies, she worked in the Biomedical Organic Chemistry lab focusing her research on the Development of Novel Nucleoside Based Agents against Breast Cancer Cells.

She decided to take a year off from school to open a Shooting and Training Center in West Chester, Ohio, where she worked as a Firearms Manager and ATF Liaison. After realizing her passion for firearms, she applied to the Forensic & National Security Sciences Institute at Syracuse University. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Forensic Science with concentrations in Crime Scene Investigation and Impressions Evidence. During the summer of 2017, Ms. Wagner interned with the Cincinnati Police Department for the Criminalistics Squad and Homicide Unit. For her Graduate Research, Alexandra will be working with the local county Forensic Science Center on functionality and class characteristics on homemade weapons.

She is expected to graduate in December 2018, with her Master’s and an Advanced Certificate of Study in Firearm and Toolmarks Examination. She will also be graduating with an Advanced Certificate of Study in National Security Studies from the Institute of National Security and Counterterrorism at the Syracuse University College of Law.

Following completion of her Master’s degree, Alexandra plans to serve her country using her advanced degree and specialized training.

Andrea Muñoz is currently pursuing her Masters in Criminalistics at California State University, Los Angeles. She completed her undergraduate Bachelors of Science degree in Human Biology at the University of Southern California.

She currently interns at the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department in the firearm and biology units and at the Los Angeles Police Department in the firearm unit. Her background experience also includes DNA research at the USC Keck School of Medicine as well as internships at the Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiners-Coroner and various hospitals. She is an active member of the California Association of Criminalists and has participated in a California Criminalistics Institute course.

Ms. Muñoz grew up in a family of avid hunters and has a passion for firearms and forensics. Her goal is to obtain a career as a firearm and tool mark examiner upon completion of her Master's degree.

Amanda Kephart is currently a Junior Forensic Science Student at Barrett, The Honors College, at the Arizona State University in Glendale, Arizona. She currently works part-time as a research lab assistant in an Organic Synthesis Research lab for cancer research. Ms Kephart is also working on an honors thesis project researching the use of Gun Blue for developing fingerprints on fired brass cartridge casings. She has served as a volunteer for the Tucson Police Department Crime Lab.

After the completion of her undergraduate studies, Ms. Kephart hopes to either pursue a Masters degree in Forensic Science or begin a career as a Forensic Scientist.

Chris Garcia completed her undergraduate education at California State University, Northridge, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. After earning her degree, Ms. Garcia worked in a genetics lab performing PCR and DNA sequencing to determine genetic disease. She also worked as a lab manager for a molecular diagnostic lab where she tested for infectious disease.

After realizing her desire for a career change, she applied to the forensics program at the University of California, Davis. She is currently working towards her Master of Science in Forensic Science and is expected to graduate in June 2018. After receiving this degree, it is her goal to work in the field of firearm and tool mark analysis.

For her thesis, Ms. Garcia is examining whether or not solid copper bullets fired through a handgun have statistically significant effects on the  individual characteristics of the gun barrel. She will be conducting her research in partnership with the California Criminalistics Institute.

Neveen Abdel-Karim obtained a Bachelors Honours Degree in Forensic Science from Kent University, UK in 2011 and is currently conducting an MSc by Research in Defence and Security at Cranfield University, UK. Neveen is developing new methods to characterise and provenance ammunition components for her thesis. Her ongoing research has recently been presented at the AFTE 2016 Training Seminar in New Orleans and she is intending to present at the Forensic Science in Defence and Security Symposia, Cranfield University. 

As a young professional focussing on ammunition analysis, Neveen works closely with academic, civil service and military personnel. She is active within the forensic community and regularly attends conferences and workshops to discuss advances in scientific and legal industries. Her commitment has been noted and she has subsequently contributed to "Interfaces" - a publication by the Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.

Miss Abdel-Karim interned with the Weapons Artificer for the Ministry of Defence, and has also completed a placement with Cleveland and Durham Police, Specialist Operations Unit. She was required to work closely with expert witnesses and developed a proficient understanding of firearm operating mechanisms, failures and corresponding legal implications.

She is also a laboratory teaching assistant at Cranfield for the Firearm Investigation and Forensic Ballistics Modules, as well as liaising with commercial companies in order to facilitate training courses. She hopes to become employed as a firearms examiner and contribute professionally and academically to this field as her career progresses. With the AFTE 2016 Scholarship, Neveen has been able to increase the scope of her research and increase its value amongst academics and researchers.

Galyn completed her undergraduate education at California State University, Fresno with a B.S. in Chemistry. During her undergraduate career, she had the opportunity to participate in an off-campus internship with the Agriculture and Priority Pollutants Laboratory, to replicate a professional setting for the instrumental analytical chemistry course. Galyn is now working on obtaining an M.S. Degree in Criminalistics from California State University, Los Angeles.

Galyn is currently a volunteer intern with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department in the Forensic Biology Section. She is currently performing a validation study to explore new DNA extraction techniques to better improve the overall procedure and eliminate subsequent substrate transfer of substrate. She is also collaborating on a thesis research project with criminalists associated with Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Firearms Section. The research addresses the interpretation of damage to textile fibers that result from high energy impact penetration caused by bullet or high velocity power tools. Galyn presented the results of this research study at the California Association of Criminalists Spring Seminar in May 2016. Following completion of her Master’s Degree, she hopes to expand her career into the field of firearms and tool mark examination.

Greg Hogrebe completed his undergraduate education at California State University, Fullerton with a B.S. in Biology and a Minor in Chemistry. During his undergraduate career, he performed research in the fields of molecular and cell biology. He is now working on obtaining his M.S Degree in Criminalistics from California State University, Los Angeles.

For his thesis Mr. Hogrebe is working with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to differentiate fibers damaged by gun shots and those damaged by other means with the use of polarized light microscopy. Mr. Hogrebe is currently working as a Forensic Specialist focusing on crime scene investigation and latent print examination, but hopes to one day expand his career into the field of firearms and tool mark examination.

Roger Jefferys is a first-generation college student and graduated from West Virginia University (WVU) in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Forensic and Investigative Science. He is currently enrolled in the Master of Forensic and Investigative Science Program at WVU. Roger is a graduate teaching assistant for the Department of Forensic and Investigative Science and was recently selected as an outstanding graduate assistant by the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. He is a teaching assistant for the crime scene investigation and bloodstain pattern analysis courses, gives guided tours of the department’s facilities, and assists with in-house administrative functions. Roger’s research topic for his Master’s thesis is to evaluate the transfer of glass onto bullets to determine the angle of impact and firing distance.

Following completion of his Master’s degree, Roger plans to seek a position with an agency working as a firearms examiner or with a company as a developmental research scientist. His long term goal is to return to academia to teach forensic science to students interested in making it their career and to develop continuing education courses. 

No biography provided.

Chad Eyerly graduated from the University of California, Irvine in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. As an undergrad, he was involved in atmospheric chemistry research with AirUCI. He is currently a student in the Master of Criminalistics program at the California State University, Los Angeles, and will receive his Master’s degree in June 2014.
 
Mr. Eyerly worked as an intern over the summer of 2013 in the Los Angeles Police Department, Scientific Investigation Division, Firearms Analysis Unit. His project involved operating an ALIAS, Advanced Ballistics Analysis System, as a part of a study of random toolmarks found on cartridge cases from Beretta firearms. He became proficient at inputting images, as well as using the ALIAS software to analyze the cartridge cases.
 
As an ardent outdoorsman and Eagle Scout, Mr. Eyerly has always had a passion for firearms and dreamed to have a career in which involves them. For this reason, he is extremely excited to enter into the field of Firearm and Toolmark Identification after he graduates.  

Mr. Botello graduated from the University of Texas - Austin with a B.S. in Biology with a focus in Microbiology. He worked at a biotech firm in Austin for three years prior to pursuing a Master's Degree. He recently finished his first year of a two-year M.S. program in Forensic Science at Marshall University. His current focus of study is in Crime Scene Investigation and Digital Forensics.

Mr. Botello has been working as an intern at the Kentucky State Police Eastern Regional Crime Laboratory since January 2013. During the summer of 2013, he will continue to work with KSP's Dwight Deskins toward the goal of completing a study on the effects of bullet velocity and gunpowder type on GSR patterns in regards to distance determination.

After graduation, Mr. Botello plans to enter into the field of Firearm and Toolmark Identification and would also like to do more research to contribute to the validity of the field.

Kiersten LaPorte graduated from St. Lawrence University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and a minor in biology. During her undergraduate studies, Kiersten was involved with research in environmental analytical chemistry. She recently completed her first year as a student in the Master of Forensic Science program at Virginia Commonwealth University, and will receive her Master’s degree in May 2014.

Ms. LaPorte performed research at the Vermont Forensic Laboratory as an intern last summer. She is currently conducting research in the trace evidence section at the Virginia Department of Forensic Science Central Laboratory in Richmond, VA. Ms. LaPorte looks forward to exploring course work in trace evidence analysis and firearm and toolmark identification as she continues her education in the forensic science field.

Meda Miller is a senior at Utah Valley University pursuing her Bachelor of Science Degree in Forensic Science with a Minor in Criminal Justice. She had the opportunity to participate in the Forensic Science Directed Research program and presented at the National Conference of Undergraduate Research in March 2012.

Meda is currently working as an intern with the Utah Bureau of Forensic Services in Salt Lake City in the Chemistry section of the Crime Lab. This fall she will be taking 20 credits and continuing to gain experience in the field with an additional internship with the Unified Police Department of Salt Lake City.

Ms. Miller plans to graduate with Honors in December 2012. She is extremely honored to have been selected for the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners Scholarship. 

Sajal Shah is currently 6 months away from completing her MSc in Forensic Science from the University of Auckland in New Zealand. Her project is concerned with cranial gunshots and bloodspatter, where she is investigating simulant materials that behave similarly to brain tissue upon bullet impact.
 
Ms. Shah completed her BSc at the University of Otago (also in New Zealand) and majored in genetics, microbiology and biochemistry. Genetics instilled her with a passion for forensic science and lead her to pursuing postgraduate study in the subject.

Sajal’s ultimate goals are to complete a PhD, then support the forensic science community by carrying out research, lecturing and working with the New Zealand police as a forensic scientist.

Daniel Glorae is beginning his final year in the Master’s of Criminalistics program at Cal State University Los Angeles. He received his Bachelor’s in Biology from Stanford University in 2008. Currently, through a grant from the California Forensic Science Institute, he is interning in the Forensic Biology section of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department assisting in processing the historical backlog. He is also performing research in the firearms section, exploring the effect of ammuntion variation on distance determination.

After completing his undergraduate years, Daniel was employed as a Detention Services Officer for the Los Angeles County Probation Department. While his exposure to law enforcement strengthened his commitment to public service it was clear to him that his passion lay in the sciences. It was the union of these two interests that paved the way for his pursuit of a career in Forensics. His goal is to become a criminalist for the Los Angeles County Sheriffs where he can put his education and passions in service to his community. 

Jeremy Monkres is a student in the Master of Science in Forensic Science program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), concentrating in the physical and biology tracks. He previously attended VCU as an undergraduate and received a Bachelor’s degree in forensic science, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Jeremy expects to receive his Master’s degree in May 2012, at which time he will pursue a career in forensics as a Firearm and Toolmark Examiner.

Currently, Mr. Monkres is conducting research on bullets fired from consecutively rifled barrels with the Virginia Department of Forensic Science Eastern Laboratory in Norfolk, VA. He plans to publish the results of the project in the AFTE Journal and possibly present the findings at the AAFS Annual Meeting or the AFTE Training Seminar next year.

Elizabeth is currently a junior at California State University Stanislaus. She is working towards a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Science. Elizabeth began her college education at Modesto Junior College where she graduated on the Dean’s List with an Associate in Science Degree in Criminal Justice.

Miss Nunes hopes to start a career as a crime scene investigator for a local law enforcement agency while she continues her education to obtain a Masters of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice. Elizabeth’s ultimate career goal is to work for the FBI in their Criminal Investigative Division.

Elizabeth volunteers to ride along with the ID Tech at the local Sheriff’s Department. She has also assisted at the Stanislaus County Coroner’s office. She will be applying for an internship with the FBI in the fall as long as they have the funding for their program.

Hannah Poirier is going into her senior year at Virginia Commonwealth University where she will be graduating next May with her Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science and minors in both biology and chemistry. Currently she is working for the Virginia Multi-disciplinary Crash Investigation Team as a clerical assistant as well as volunteering for the Henrico Police Department with their AFIS Unit.

Since her senior year in high school, Hannah has been interested in becoming a firearm and tool mark examiner. Although VCU does not currently offer any academics in this specific division of forensic science, Hannah is looking forward to working in a lab where she will be adequately trained and can earn the title of being an expert. 

Jennifer Bishop is a student at the University of Central Oklahoma’s Forensic Science Institute, where she is currently working to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science. Jennifer already holds a B.S. degree in Biology and is anticipating graduation for her second bachelor’s degree in December 2010.  She plans to earn her M.S. degree in Forensic Science at the UCO Forensic Science Institute as well, where her focus will be in the Firearm and Toolmark Discipline.
 
Ms. Bishop recently completed and presented research on the drop-off consistency of shotgun wads at AFTE’s 2010 training seminar in Henderson, Nevada, and plans to publish the results of this research in the AFTE Journal. Jennifer is very focused on accomplishing her education goals and plans to seek a position on the Federal, State, or local level as a Firearm and Toolmark Examiner.

Rachel Bolton-King obtained a high First Class Bachelors Honours Degree in Forensic Science in July 2008 from Nottingham Trent University (NTU), United Kingdom (including a 12 month industrial placement as an analytical chemist). Her interest in forensic firearms identification directed her back to NTU, where she is currently half-way through her PhD program. Rachel’s PhD research is entitled 'Topographical Mapping of Fired Bullet Samples for Forensic Firearms Identification' and focuses on 9 x 19 mm semi-automatic pistols. Ms. Bolton-King’s ongoing research has recently been published in the AFTE Journal and presented in poster format at 2010 summer seminars including AFTE, the Forensic Science Society Firearms Conference in Leeds, UK and the Forensic Research & Teaching Conference at Coventry University, UK.

Rachel also lectures and supervises laboratory practicals for the NTU BSc Firearms and Ballistics Module, as well as undertaking consultancy work for companies offering educational forensic programmes for school pupils. She hopes to continue researching and teaching in this field after completion of her PhD.

Heather received her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Radford University, Virginia in 2007. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science degree in Forensic Science with a concentration in crime scene investigation from The George Washington University (GWU) in Washington, D.C. Heather is president of the Association of Forensic Science Students organization at GWU, and is a professional member of the Chesapeake Bay Division of the International Association for Identification. She attended the annual spring conference in Virginia Beach in March 2010, where she took home a second place award in the poster presentation contest.

Ms. Charron has held multiple internships with police departments and just completed an internship with the investigators at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Washington, D.C. After completing her Masters degree in May 2011, Heather wants to begin her career in the field of forensics. She is interested in latent fingerprints and forensic anthropology.

Maggie is currently in the last year of her Master’s of Forensic Science program at Stevenson University, where students can obtain both their Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in five years. She graduated in May 2010 with her B.S. in Chemistry. Now working on her thesis, Maggie is researching organic gunshot residue using GC-MS. In addition to researching for her thesis and being a full-time graduate student, Maggie works two part-time jobs and is active in charity work.

Maggie’s interest in firearms was sparked by her father, who was an armorer, avid hunter, and a firearms safety instructor who routinely included Maggie with his activities. After graduation in May 2011, Maggie plans to seek a position as a Firearms Examiner with a local Crime Laboratory, and hopes to eventually take the experience and skills she has attained to be a Firearms Examiner for the federal government.

Amanda Heard is currently pursuing her Bachelors degree in Chemistry and her Masters degree in Forensic Science at Stevenson University in Stevenson, MD, which offers a BS/MS program allowing students to obtain both the BS and MFS in a total of 5 years. Ms. Heard is active at Stevenson University in the Junior class Student Council, the Forensic Science Club, the American Chemical Society Student Affiliate Club, and Sigma Alpha Phi, the National Society of Leadership and Success. She played rugby in high school and recently started a women’s rugby team in Westminster, MD.

Amanda developed an interest in firearms at a young age when she went hunting with her father. This interest was strengthened when she studied firearms and toolmarks in her forensic science studies at Stevenson. Amanda looks forward to a career in firearms and toolmarks after she obtains her Masters degree in Forensic Science in 2012.

Carolyn is currently attending Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, KY. She will graduate in May of 2011 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Science with an emphasis in chemistry.

During the summer of 2008 and 2009 she was an intern at the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab in the Firearms and Toolmaks section. This summer she hopes to have another internship in a national crime lab.

After completing her Bachelors degree she wants to peruse her Masters degree in chemistry.

Lee is currently in his final year of a Bachelors Degree in Applied Science in Forensic Investigation at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT), Australian Capital Territory in Australia.

Lee is a member of the Australian and New Zealand Forensic Science Society (ANZFSS) and attended the 19th ANZFSS International Conference on the Forensic Sciences in Melbourne in 2008. This sparked great interest and desire to seek research and employment opportunities in Firearms and Tool Mark Identification. As a result, Lee is now working with the Australian Federal Police and CIT on a research project at the AFP’s Forensic and Data Centre in the Firearm Identification department.

Upon graduation in December of 2009, Lee plans to seek a post-graduate research position in Firearms Identification or Chemical Criminalistics. Lee then hopes to find employment within the Australian Federal Police to continue work in Firearms Identification. With this scholarship, Lee has been able to increase the scope of his research assignment and now plans to present his research project at the 2010 ANZFSS International Forensic Science Symposium in Sydney.

Janey is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Forensic Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) where she maintains a GPA of 3.66. She has recently begun an internship with the Birmingham Police Department under the supervision of the talented staff of the Firearms ID unit. She is also a part time employee of the University’s Academic Center for Athletics.

Miss Deimling received her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry along with a minor in Criminal Justice from UAB in May 2007 while competing on the University’s Women’s Golf Team. In her four years of competing at a NCAA division I level, she competed in every tournament, won an individual title, was a conference USA player of the week and was named 3rd team All-Conference.

Upon graduating in May of 2009, Janey plans on finding a job in Firearms ID or Trace Evidence.

Brandon is a current student at California State University, San Bernardino, CSUSB. Brandon is dual majoring in both Chemistry and Criminal Justice at Cal State. He is currently on the Dean’s list for both the College of Natural Sciences and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. He plans on graduating with a Bachelors of Science in Chemistry and a Bachelors of Arts in Criminal Justice in June of 2009. Brandon currently works at Colton Police Department as a Police Cadet and has been serving at CPD for over two years. He is also enrolled in the Crime Scene Certification program at Univ. of Riverside extension program. Brandon is a graduate of the 2008 CSUSB Leadership academy and hopes to be a leader in the law enforcement and forensics community. His leadership is shown on campus as member and vice president for the CSUSB Criminal Justice Club and also member and secretary of ALPHI PHI SIGMA, the National Criminal Justice honor society chapter at CSUSB.

Sarah is a student at the College of William and Mary. She will graduate in the spring of 2009 with a degree in chemistry and a minor in anthropology. She is in the Monroe Scholars Honors Program. During the summer of 2007, she completed an internship in the Firearms and Toolmarks division of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. In conjunction with the internship, she completed a research investigation of two of the United States’ automated ballistics identification systems, NIBIN and IBIS.

This summer, Sarah will participate in another honors internship program in a national crime laboratory. Upon graduation, she intends to pursue a Masters of Science in Forensic Science and enter the field of either forensic chemistry or ballistics.

Elizabeth is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Forensic Science with a concentration in Criminalistics at the University of New Haven in West Haven, Connecticut. While in school she is also a graduate assistant to the Chemistry Department.

Elizabeth graduated Summa Cum Laude with honors in 2006 with her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri. While at CMU she was a member of Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honor Society, Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society, American Chemical Society, and named to the Dean’s List. She also worked as a Chemistry tutor and lab assistant.

Before attending the University of New Haven Elizabeth worked full-time at Poet Biorefining in Macon, Missouri as a lab assistant.

In the summer of 2008 she plans on completing an internship with the ATF in Ammendale, Maryland. Upon graduating in May of 2009, Elizabeth plans to pursue a career as a firearms examiner.

Candita, an international student from St. Kitts, West Indies, attends the University of Baltimore in Maryland. In May, 2008, she will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Studies with a concentration in Forensic Science.

Currently, this straight A student is the Vice President of the UB Circle of the Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society, a member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, a certified Emerging and Established leader in the Leadership Certification Program, a Helen P. Denit Honors student, a Wilson’s Scholar, a Conversation Partner for Chinese MPA students, and a part-time employee at the university’s Academic Resource Center. She is also represented in the National Dean’s List.

In June, 2007, Candita interned with the Firearms Unit of the Baltimore Police Department Crime Lab, under the direction of an outstanding staff. She is now, more than ever, eagerly looking forward to a life of dedication to the field of forensics.

Bonnie is currently working on her Master’s degree in Forensic Science at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond Virginia. While in school she also works part time as a Forensic Administrative Specialist for the Department of Forensic Science, as well as working as a Barista for Starbucks.

She received her Bachelor’s of Business degree in Marketing from the University of New Mexico in 1999 and then decided to pursue a second degree in Biology. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s in Biology and minor in Chemistry in 2003. In school she was a member of the Golden Key and Mortar Board National Honor Societies as well as a member of the Chi Omega sorority.

After graduating college, she worked full time as a certified Cytogenetics Technologist at Genzyme Genetics before moving to Virginia to pursue a dream in the forensic sciences.

Upon graduating in May of 2008, Bonnie plans to begin a career working as a trace evidence or firearms examiner.

Faith is currently attending the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) for her Masters in Forensic Science, concentration in Criminalistics, where she maintains a 4.0 GPA. She is the Graduate President of the Student Academy of Forensic Science, and is a professional member to both the American Chemical Society and the National Criminal Justice Association. In February 2007, Faith traveled to San Antonio, TX to attend the 59th annual American Academy of Forensic Scientists (AAFS) meeting. She is currently employed as a biomedical research technician at the Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center conducting cancer and diabetes research.

Miss Musko moved to Oklahoma City from Pittsburgh, PA where she attended Waynesburg College and received a B.S. in Forensic Science with minors in Biology and Chemistry in May 2005. During her undergraduate experience, Faith was a Mock Crime Scene Workshop Instructor and a Mock Trial Expert Witness. She was employed with R.J. Lee Group, Inc. as a Forensic Department intern, where she conducted gunshot residue analysis using scanning electron microscopy.

Upon graduating from UCO in the Spring of 2008, Miss Musko plans to find a job in Trace Evidence or Toxicology and plans to attended law school in the Fall of 2008 for her criminal law degree.

Lauren is currently working two jobs, including being employed as a Forensic Administration Specialist by the Department of Forensic Science in Richmond, Virginia. She is enrolled in the Forensic Science Master’s Program at Virginia Commonwealth University where she maintains a 4.0 GPA while being a Graduate Representative for the Forensic Science Student Club and a Graduate Mentor.

Lauren received her B.S. in Biology from Wake Forest University in May of 2005, where she was a member of Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society, the National Dean’s List, Golden Key International Honor Society, and Pi Beta Phi Sorority.

In the Fall, Lauren plans to complete an internship at the Department of Forensic Science in the Firearms and Toolmarks section under Ann Davis. Upon completion of her education, she plans to pursue a career as a firearms examiner.

Jordan graduated with honors from Furman University in Greenville, SC with a Bachelors of Science in Chemistry concentrating in Biochemistry. While at Furman she was a research intern with Dr. L. Trzupek studying suicide substrate enzyme inhibition; she also interned at MicroAnalytical, Inc, a private forensic lab. After graduating from Furman, Jordan served as a missionary with the United Methodist Church working primarily as a youth program specialist at the Susannah Wesley Community Center in Honolulu, HI. Jordan then taught introductory physics & chemistry at North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, GA. Jordan is completing her final year of a Masters of Science in Forensic Science at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, VA and will graduate in May of 2007. She is looking forward to interning in the Firearms Section at the Virginia Department of Forensic Science. 

I graduated from Northern Arizona University in December of 2003 with Cum Laude honors. I received an Extended Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry and a Minor in Criminal Justice. During my undergraduate education I completed an internship with the Firearms Division of the Phoenix Police Department's Crime Laboratory Services Bureau as well as assisted Dr. Michael Ketterer (Professor of Chemistry) and Luke Haag in a forensic science related research project. I am currently a graduate student attending the University of California Davis pursuing my Masters of Science degree in Forensic Science, with an expected firearms or toolmarks related thesis project. I expect to graduate in June of 2006. Upon completion of my education I will be pursuing a career as a firearms examiner.

Naila is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Forensic Science at The George Washington University. She will graduate in May 2006 with a concentration in Forensic Molecular Biology. She has completed her Bachelor’s of Science degree with a double major in Zoology and Botany and an Honor’s Certificate in Zoology from the University of Mumbai. During her graduate studies she has been working with Dr. Walter Rowe on fire-arm artifacts that were collected from the site of the Fetterman Massacre. This work with Dr. Rowe enabled her to present a poster on the removal of calcareous deposits from aged fire-arm artifacts at the 2005 meeting of the Mid-Atlantic Association of Forensic Scientists, in Pittsburgh.

Through the months of May to July of 2004 Naila worked as a trainee in the Directorate of State Forensic Science Laboratories in Maharashtra, India. During this training she learnt the intricacies of the working of the Biology/Serology section of a Forensic Laboratory.

During the moths of June till August Naila will intern with DNA Security, Inc in Burlington, North Carolina as a Genetic Analyst Trainee.

In her free time she enjoys the outdoors as well reading fiction.

I graduated June 2005 with distinction from the University of Toronto at Mississauga with an Honors Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic Chemistry. I completed an internship with Murray Smith and Bill Sopiro at the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Forensic Laboratory Services in Ottawa and I have been hired at the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to your organization for awarding me this honor!

Zoe is currently employed as a Forensic Laboratory Specialist by the Virginia Division of Forensic Science, Richmond, Va. in the Firearm and Toolmark Section. 

She is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va., where she received a B.A. degree in Chemistry in December, 1999.  Currently, she is a candidate at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va. for a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Forensic Science, to be conferred December, 2001. 

Zoe successfully completed an internship in the Spring, 2001 and is currently conducting an independent study with the firearm/toolmark section.  Zoe plans to pursue a career in Forensic Science, primarily in the Firearm and Toolmark area.