Jeannine Pettiford
Adjunct Professor
Degrees/Certificates
M.A., Criminal Justice – University of Massachusetts
Graduate Certificate in Security Studies – University of Massachusetts
Graduate Certificate in Domestic Violence Prevention – University of Massachusetts
Since joining Johnson & Wales University in Spring 2022, I have taught a variety of Criminal Justice courses both in-person and online, including Community Justice, Restorative Justice, Race, Crime and Justice, Cultural Awareness and Diversity in Criminal Justice, Change and Innovation in Law Enforcement, Law Enforcement, and Corrections.
Prior to joining JWU, I spent 27 years as a police officer in New Bedford, including six years as a detective in the narcotics and major crimes units, where I investigated cases ranging from homicides to robberies. I also served four years as a Sergeant and ten years as a Lieutenant, gaining the skills and insight necessary to manage the operational and administrative components of law enforcement. My work at JWU has been rewarding, enjoyable, and inspiring, and I am continually motivated by the dedication and curiosity of my students.
What online courses could a student possibly take from you?
CJS2040 Corrections
CJS1090 Law Enforcement
What do you like most about teaching online?
What I value most about teaching online is the chance to connect with students from many different places and walks of life. Online learning removes barriers and makes education possible for people who might not be able to attend in person. It’s interesting to see how students bring their unique backgrounds into class discussions, and I find it very rewarding to guide them as they connect their own experiences to the subject matter.
How do you bring the industry to life in class?
I draw from my experience in law enforcement to make the material real and practical. I share stories, examples, and lessons learned from working in roles such as detective, sergeant, and lieutenant, and I use those to help students understand both the challenges and rewards of the field. Beyond personal stories, I bring in current events, policy debates, and real-world case studies so students can see how the concepts we cover apply outside the classroom.
Do you have any career advice for prospective students?
For those who know they want a career in criminal justice, I encourage them to keep an open mind about the many directions this path can take—law enforcement, corrections, the judiciary, research, policy, advocacy, and beyond. Success comes from being flexible, professional, and empathetic in whatever role a student pursues. For students who are still deciding, or who may not want a career in the field but are drawn to the subject, I believe studying criminal justice is still incredibly valuable. It sharpens critical thinking, strengthens communication skills, and builds a deeper understanding of how justice, fairness, and community impact our society. Whether or not a student decides to work in the field, the knowledge that they gain will make them informed, thoughtful, and engaged as a citizen.
