Criminal Justice Department to Host National Criminal Justice Month Events This March

The Department of Criminal Justice will host a month-long series of events in March 2026 in recognition of National Criminal Justice Month.   

Centered on the theme “Courage to Care: One Mission, One Mind – Encouraging Justice, Unity, Well-Being, Compassion and Mindfulness for All,” the series brings together students, faculty, practitioners and community partners for conversations focused on trauma-informed justice, advocacy, wellness and workplace equity.  

All events will take place in Brigman Hall, Room 100C, and are open to students, faculty and community members.  

March 3 & March 4 | Noon | Trauma-Informed Justice  

The month begins with two programs focused on trauma-informed approaches in justice systems:  

• March 3 – Transformative Justice and Healthy Lifestyles: This session will explore restorative and transformative approaches that center healing, accountability and long-term well-being.  
• March 4 – Trauma-Informed Policing: A collaborative event between Criminal Justice, DOJCT and Theatre, this session will examine how law enforcement can integrate trauma-informed practices into policing strategies.  

Together, these discussions will highlight innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to justice that prioritize both public safety and community care.  

March 18 | Noon | Advocacy Services Panel  

• The Victims Services Advocacy Panel will feature representatives from MetroSafe, UofL Social Work, VOCAL-KY and LMPD Victim Services. Panelists will discuss the critical role of advocacy in supporting victims and survivors, while providing students insight into career pathways within victim services and community-based support organizations.  

This event offers a valuable opportunity for students interested in victim advocacy, social work and justice reform to engage directly with professionals in the field.  

March 26 | 4 p.m. | Food Provided | Student Health & Wellness: Eight Dimensions of Wellness  

• Justice work can be emotionally demanding. This interactive session will focus on the Eight Dimensions of Wellness and how students and professionals can sustain their well-being while pursuing meaningful careers in criminal justice. Lunch will be provided.  

March 30 | 12 p.m. | Lunch Provided | Workplace Wellness: Gender-Based Violence at Work  

• Sponsored by the Louisville Office for Women, this program will examine gender-based violence in workplace settings and explore prevention strategies, policy considerations and support systems that promote safer professional environments. 

Throughout National Criminal Justice Month, the Department of Criminal Justice invites the campus and broader Louisville community to engage in thoughtful dialogue about justice that is compassionate, trauma-informed and grounded in collective well-being.  

For students considering a future in criminal justice, these events provide a firsthand look at how the field is evolving—blending accountability with advocacy, enforcement with empathy, and policy with people-centered practice.