TAMIU Prof Receives National Award for Leadership
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Texas A&M International University professor Dr. Frances P. Bernat, chair of the College of Arts and Sciences’ department of public affairs and social research, was named the recipient of the Coramae Richey Mann Leadership Award by the national Academy of Criminal Justices (ACS), Minority and Women’s Section (MWS) in ceremonies at the ACS annual meeting in New York City recently.
The Coramae Richey Mann Leadership Award recognizes the work of an individual who has broadened knowledge, enriched the MWS group’s existence and created a space for others to prosper.
Dr. Bernat, who joined TAMIU in 2010, is a founding member of the MWS. In announcing the Award, Dr. Mary Stohr of Missouri State University called Bernat “tireless” in her efforts to advance justice issues.
“The theme of ‘justice for all’ permeates all of her professional work and personal interests…her scholarship concentrates on issues like human trafficking, race and gender disparities in the criminal justice system and victimization. She has repeatedly taken personal and professional risks over time to pursue equity and justice for whomever is in need,” Dr. Stohr said.
TAMIU’s Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Tom Mitchell, said Bernat is an inspiring figure on campus.
"She is the editor of an important journal in her field, a seasoned scholar with an international reputation for her work documenting the plight of victims of human trafficking, and a strong and effective advocate on campus for excellence in both teaching and scholarship. We are blessed to have her on our faculty," Dr. Mitchell said.
Bernat holds her Ph.D. in Political Science from Washington State University. She also earned her J.D. from the State University of Buffalo, an MA in Sociology and a BS in Criminal Justice, both also from SUNY-Buffalo.
TAMIU’s department of public affairs and social research offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of disciplines including criminal justice, political science, public administration and sociology.
Programs enable TAMIU students to think critically about the modern world and engage in social science research. Graduates fill a variety of critical roles in the public and private sectors. Department faculty are committed to building future leaders who are equipped to meet the challenges of the new century.
For additional information, contact the TAMIU College of Arts and Sciences, department of public affairs and social research, at 956.326.2475, visit offices in Canseco Hall, room 301 or click on http://www.tamiu.edu/coas/pasr/#
Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu