Susan Whitford

Susan C. Whitford is the Program Director for the Criminal Justice program at KUEC. She a distinguished expert in the field of criminal justice, renowned for her extensive contributions in academia and professional practice. With more than 20 years of each industry experience and academic teaching, she has created a significant presence in the field as she contributes to the shaping the way law enforcement agencies analyze and combat crime, and how that is delivered, embraced, and practiced by higher education students.

Susan holds a Master of Public Policy and Administration degree, a Master of Science in Management degree, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services and Criminal Justice. Her academic accomplishments are complemented by being awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence by the International Association of Crime Analysts and by being awarded the Sister Mary Mark Orr Pioneer Spirit Award from the University of Saint Mary for Outstanding Career Success.

Susan's professional journey has spanned various roles, including serving as a Crime Analyst with the Shawnee Police Department and the Overland Park Police Department, where she honed her skills in data analysis and intelligence. Additionally, she has excelled in leadership positions at LexisNexis Risk Solutions and BAIR Analytics, bringing her analytical expertise to the corporate world.  Susan has been an Adjunct Faculty member at several colleges and universities, including the University of Saint Mary, Baker University, Tiffin University, Johnson County Community College, Regis University, and the University of Missouri – Kansas City.

Susan is the author of numerous books and articles on criminal justice, providing invaluable insights and methodologies to her peers and students alike. Susan's dedication to advancing the field of crime analysis is evident through her roles as the former President of the International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA) and her continued involvement with the organization. Her leadership has helped shape the international community of crime analysts. Susan's contributions to the field extend beyond her professional roles, with published articles and presentations at conferences across the globe. Her work has been featured in various publications, including LawOfficer Magazine, Police Chief magazine, RAND Corporation, and more.  She has keynoted in Amsterdam, Beijing, the Port of Spain, Toronto, Vancouver, Santiago, and Manchester.  Susan's active participation in professional associations and committees showcases her dedication to advancing the field. She has served as President, Vice President, and Secretary of the International Association of Crime Analysts, among other roles.

Susan and her husband and family enjoy travel, both domestic and international, and are passionate about charitable activities, primarily in the area of education as a means out of poverty, first generation students and supporting efforts focusing on the underserved in society.