Winston Harris
Forney
Summary
Dedicated Criminal Justice Educator and Law Enforcement Leader committed to enhancing student success and workforce readiness. Expertise in developing student-centered curricula and employing data-driven assessments to improve retention and performance. Integrates real-world policing scenarios with academic content to effectively prepare students for careers in law enforcement.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice
North Carolina Wesleyan College
Rocky Mount
08.2015 - Current
- Delivered online and hybrid instruction in criminal justice and research methods courses, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes
- Design student-centered curriculum aligned with institutional learning outcomes and accreditation standards
- Integrate applied law enforcement scenarios to strengthen critical thinking and job readiness
- Use data-driven assessment strategies to improve student retention and performance outcomes
- Provide timely feedback and maintain a strong instructor presence in online learning environments
- Supported diverse student populations, including non-traditional and working adult learners, fostering an inclusive learning environment
- Collaborated with faculty to align courses with workforce and program expectations, ensuring relevancy and applicability of curriculum
Police Sergeant (Special Police Officer)
Allied Universal
Zebulon
08.2020 - 01.2026
- Conducted patrol, surveillance, and access control operations to ensure safety in high-security environments
- Investigated incidents and coordinated timely responses with local law enforcement to enhance community safety
- Applied threat assessment and risk mitigation strategies
- Mentored personnel to strengthen team capabilities and maintained operational readiness for all assignments
- Prepared detailed reports aligned with legal and regulatory standards
Police Captain
Wilson Police Department
Wilson
08.1997 - 07.2020
- Implemented data-driven policing strategies to enhance operational effectiveness and response outcomes
- Directed crisis response efforts and coordinated multi-unit operations
- Led patrol divisions, personnel management, and strategic law enforcement operations
- Supervised and trained officers to elevate their performance and leadership capabilities
- Developed community engagement initiatives that fostered public trust and collaboration
- Conducted investigations and reviewed cases to ensure legal compliance and accuracy
Education
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) - Criminal Justice
Capella University
01-2014
Master of Science (M.S.) - General Administration
Central Michigan University
01-2004
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Justice Studies
Wesleyan College
01-2002
Skills
- Curriculum development
- Criminal justice trends
- Data analysis
- Instructional communication
- Leadership and team building
- Student oversight
- Problem-solving and mentorship
Teaching Learning Philosophy - Summary
Student-centered educator committed to bridging theory and practice through applied learning. Emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and real-world application of criminal justice concepts. Focused on fostering inclusive learning environments that support diverse student populations and promote academic success, career readiness, and lifelong learning.
Research Interests
- Evidence-Based Policing
- Criminal Justice Education and Workforce Development
- Law Enforcement Leadership and Professionalization
- Community Policing and Public Trust
- Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
Technology Tools
- Learning Management Systems (Blackboard, Canvas, Moodle)
- Online Discussion Facilitation
- Virtual Office Hours & Student Engagement Tools
- Digital Assessment and Feedback Systems
Service Engagement
- Mentorship of criminal justice students and early-career professionals
- Community policing initiatives focused on public safety and trust-building
- Collaboration with law enforcement and academic stakeholders
Publications
Harris, W. E., Policing, Education, and the Benefits of Becoming a Police Officer, Trinity Publishing Company, 78-1964707723
References
Available upon request
Teaching Areas
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Research Methods in Criminal Justice
- Criminal Investigations
- Policing and Society
- Ethics in Criminal Justice
Academic Appointments
Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice, North Carolina Wesleyan College, Rocky Mount, NC, 08/01/15, Present, Deliver online and hybrid instruction in criminal justice and research methods courses, Design student-centered curriculum aligned with institutional learning outcomes and accreditation standards, Integrate applied law enforcement scenarios to strengthen critical thinking and job readiness, Use data-driven assessment strategies to improve student retention and performance outcomes, Provide timely feedback and maintain a strong instructor presence in online learning environments, Support diverse student populations, including non-traditional and working adult learners, Collaborate with faculty to ensure course alignment with workforce and program expectations
Timeline
Police Sergeant (Special Police Officer)
Allied Universal
08.2020 - 01.2026
Adjunct Professor of Criminal Justice
North Carolina Wesleyan College
08.2015 - Current
Police Captain
Wilson Police Department
08.1997 - 07.2020
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) - Criminal Justice
Capella University
Master of Science (M.S.) - General Administration
Central Michigan University
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Justice Studies
Wesleyan College