Cathryne Smith
Semmes
Summary
To apply my expertise in compliance, forensic science, and policy interpretation in a legal setting, with the long-term goal of pursuing a Juris Doctor and advancing a career in law and public service.
Experienced with regulatory compliance, risk management, and policy implementation. Utilizes strategic planning to ensure adherence to industry standards. Track record of fostering culture of compliance and ethical conduct.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Compliance Manager | Office of Military Services
University of South Alabama
03.2024 - Current
- - Direct regulatory and legal compliance oversight for $5M+ annually in VA/DoD tuition and fees, protecting the University from financial liability and federal audit risk.
- - Serve as the primary institutional liaison to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense, and the Alabama State Approving Agency.
- - Interpret and apply federal and state regulations, ensuring institutional adherence to complex legal requirements and benefit eligibility rules.
- - Conduct 100+ student record and financial audits annually, identifying and correcting discrepancies before they escalate to federal compliance violations.
- - Manage Post-9/11 GI Bill debt collection and reconciliation, coordinating directly with the VA and students to resolve financial obligations.
- - Author compliance manuals, digital training modules, and institutional workflows adopted University-wide.
- - Transitioned all student records and certifications to Banner/Xtender, cutting processing times by 30% and improving transparency for audits.
- - Deliver regular compliance training and presentations to students, families, and staff on VA/DoD benefits and institutional requirements.
- - Prepare and submit annual tuition/fee schedules, SAA approval applications, and institutional compliance packets.
Adjunct Professor | Dept. of Political Science & Criminal Justice
University of South Alabama
08.2025 - Current
- - Author and teach undergraduate courses designed for the Forensic Science minor, including Forensic Testimony, Medico-Legal Death Investigation, Forensic Toxicology, and Crime Scene Processing.
- - Train students in courtroom testimony, communication of scientific evidence, and legal procedures related to forensic investigation.
- - Collaborate with faculty to strengthen forensic science curriculum, ensuring alignment with academic and industry standards.
- - Mentor students pursuing careers in forensic science, criminal justice, and related legal fields.
Educator (Science & Special Education)
Baldwin County Schools, AL & Okaloosa County Schools, FL
01.2019 - 01.2024
- - Applied IDEA and Section 504 law in daily instruction and compliance reporting.
- - Managed a DoDEA grant, ensuring adherence to federal funding regulations.
- - Represented schools through public speaking at academic, athletic, and military-partnered events.
Education
Doctor of Forensic Sciences (DFS) -
Oklahoma State University
01.2026
Master of Science - Forensic Sciences
Oklahoma State University
01.2025
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology
University of West Florida
01.2016
Skills
- Compliance Oversight
- Policy Interpretation
- Audit Resolution
- Banner/Xtender
- SPSS
- Legal/Policy Writing
- Public Speaking
- Testimony Preparation
- Online teaching
- Curriculum creation
- Legal analysis
- Legal research
Certification
- Alabama Educator Certificate (Biology; Special Education) – exp. 2028
- Florida Educator Certificate (Biology; Sciences; ESE) – exp. 2029
Timeline
Adjunct Professor | Dept. of Political Science & Criminal Justice
University of South Alabama
08.2025 - Current
Compliance Manager | Office of Military Services
University of South Alabama
03.2024 - Current
Educator (Science & Special Education)
Baldwin County Schools, AL & Okaloosa County Schools, FL
01.2019 - 01.2024
Doctor of Forensic Sciences (DFS) -
Oklahoma State University
Master of Science - Forensic Sciences
Oklahoma State University
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology
University of West Florida
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