County college hires new criminal justice program head

Newton - William McGovern brings over 31 years of law enforcement service experience to his new post as criminal justice program coordinator at Sussex County Community College. In addition to his coordinator responsibilities, McGovern is teaching two courses this semester, introduction to the criminal justice system and criminology. McGovern has always wanted to be in higher education. He loves to teach and he loves the energy of being in a classroom. “Many of my heroes have been teachers, and I feel I share the passion they had for education,” he said. In recent years he has been an instructor at the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute, the New York City Police Academy and the Port Authority Police Academy, teaching such topics as community policing, crime prevention, and domestic violence. He also is an adjunct professor of criminal justice at Gibbs College. McGovern’s criminal justice program offers students key opportunities to learn, as well as assistance with job placement. Because criminal justice has so many possoble avenues to pursue, he wants his students to be aware of the available options. McGovern is excited about SCCC’s public safety training academy. “There is just a natural tie to the academy and the criminal justice program,” he said. “The facility will offer further insight and training to our students.” He plans to invite law enforcement officials to the campus to present to his students and engage them in dialogue. The criminal justice program is one of the fastest growing programs at SCCC, with close to 200 students enrolled. “I can really make a difference and help people,” said McGovern. “And with the increasing interest in the program, I look forward to offering guidance and encouragement to all of my students.” “Bill McGovern brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the college,” said Bill Waite, dean of business, technology and law. “He’s a well-seasoned veteran and has many contacts with state and local law enforcement agencies ...We will be relying on Bill to expand and further develop our programs in criminal justice and fire science. I’m delighted that he’s here.” The Criminal Justice program at SCCC is designed primarily for students who plan to attend four-year baccalaureate programs, but approximately one-half of the graduates of this program have successfully found full-time employment in security-related fields upon completion of the two-year degree. Graduates are employed in a variety of professional positions by federal, state, county, and municipal governments, as well as by private industry. For information, call 973-300-2182.