Heidi Freeman ’86, Courtney (Shain) Spotts ’13, and Amy Sipp ’12 return to St. Cloud State to speak to students about local criminal justice agencies and their opportunities.
Three alumnae returned to campus Nov. 26 to speak to students in the CJS 111: Crime and Justice in America class, one of several practitioner presentations students experience throughout the semester.
Heidi Freeman ’86 has been with Stearns County Community Corrections for over 20 years where she supervises adults in the Stearns County Sex Offender Program. She collaborates with local treatment providers to get the [predatory] offenders the support and assistance required to maintain healthy habits and practices as they transition out of prison and into the community.
Freeman, who earned degrees in criminal justice and psychology, emphasized to students the importance of addressing all individuals with respect, even when they have committed a terrible offense. She says it takes many service providers to make sure clients find and stay on a healthy path.
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Courtney (Shain) Spotts ’13 graduated from St. Cloud State with a degree in criminal justice. She is a case worker for Overcomers International Fellowship in St. Cloud, which operates out of the Dream Center.
Spotts spoke about the work she does to assist the more than 40 residents transition back into the community after serving a prison sentence. Assistance she provides includes health care, finding ways to meet the conditions of their release, employment counseling, and developing healthy relationships and personal practices.
Amy Sipp ’12 graduated from St. Cloud State with a degree in business management with an emphasis in human resources. She is the human resources manager at Granite City Armored Car, headquartered in Sauk Rapids.
Sipp encouraged students to seek employment in the armored car industry as a steppingstone in law enforcement. Armored car employees must pass a FBI background check, be at least 21 years of age, and qualify for a permit to carry. Beyond those qualifications, one will develop their communication, interpersonal relationships, and adapt to changing technology while on the job.
All three alumnae encouraged students to seek an internship, shadow a professional, or engage in criminal justice-related employment while in school. All three of their organizations work with current students to fulfill some or all of those recommendations.
CJS 111: Crime and Justice in America falls under St. Cloud State’s liberal education program’s goal 5 and diversity requirements. It is offered on campus during fall and spring terms and online during summer terms.
