The HLGU Criminal Justice Department hosted an event for students featuring the Tenth Judicial Circuit’s Presiding Judge, the Honorable Rachel Bringer-Shepherd, last week.
Judge Bringer-Shepherd spoke to the criminal justice majors on the importance of an independent judiciary in a free society. She also addressed local issues and challenges for the tenth circuit court, most of which relate to substance abuse.
She gave students ideas on how to get involved in the community, explaining to them that the number of children in foster care has risen more than 100% in the last eight years, primarily due to the drug epidemic.
Regarding substance abuse and how HLGU students can help, Judge Bringer-Shepherd said, “This is a wonderful opportunity to serve and minister and carry Christ into your profession every day.”
A question-and-answer session followed in which one of the topics involved was how the judge’s balance of justice and mercy was explored. Other topics of discussion included the structure of Missouri courts, her path to the judiciary, and how criminal justice majors should value the importance of family.
The HLGU Criminal Justice Department regularly holds events such as these for their students to learn from someone who has experienced a successful career in the field.
For more information on the criminal justice department, contact Bruce Capp, criminal justice department chair, at 573-629-3064, or via email at bcapp@hlg.edu.