Eastern Wyoming College is expanding its current criminal justice program
July 13, 2006
TORRINGTON, WY - 
Eastern Wyoming College is expanding its current criminal justice program to include a new instructor, new classes, and more workforce development opportunities.
When Glenn Schleve, a twenty-five year instructor in the criminal justice program retired, the college focused on finding a replacement. That replacement is Dr. Rick Patterson.
Patterson brings over 20 years of corrections and law enforcement experience to the program. He was currently working at EWC as a social science instructor. The college was also able to add an additional criminal justice faculty position. Larry Curtis has been hired to fill the new position. Curtis has 20 years of law enforcement experience with the Torrington Police Department and has spent the last two years training police officers in Iraq. Patterson added, "I actually trained Larry years ago. It is great to be working with him again."
"Glenn left us with a good image and a viable program, but there was only one Glenn." Patterson had to say about upcoming changes to the program. He anticipates two major areas of growth. The first involves evaluating the current offerings for expansion and alignment with transfer institutions. This also includes updating courses, especially in the forensic area.
The second area includes an increased emphasis on corrections. "I would like to see EWC take the lead in developing a criminal justice program with an emphasis in corrections. No other institution in the state is doing that," Patterson added. The EWC service area contains correctional facilities in Lusk, Newcastle, and now in Torrington with the additional of the prison. Reconnecting with local law enforcement agencies about internship opportunities for students is also part of the expansion.
Students interested in the criminal justice program should be prepared for academically rigorous program. "Students need to realize that there is great competition for the jobs they are seeking. They need to read well, write well, have great problem solving abilities, and be prepared physically," Patterson said.
Patterson also sees great opportunities for expanded workforce development courses. Training for community agency groups on dealing with sex offenders is just one example of the many customized courses that have already been developed. Ann Beaulieu, EWC Vice President/Dean of Instruction, is enthused about the opportunities that will be available for students, businesses, and community members. "I am certain that the increased educational opportunities will be supportive of the economic development needs within our communities, and the classes will be very helpful for students considering a wide variety of career options."
Persons interested in more information about the criminal justice program at EWC should contact Patterson at 307.532.8344 or visit the EWC Web site at ewc.wy.edu.
Photo Caption: L-R, Larry Curtis & Rick Patterson