Vanessa Vrtiak, MA 2017

MA Alumni 2017

Vanessa Vrtiak, MA 2017
Emphasis

Practicing Sociology

Research Interests

I am interested in research that influences policy and promotes the interest of the people. I am especially interested in Criminal Justice issues, Gender, Crime, Race and Inequalities.

Education/Career Goals

Director of a non-profit that assists in rehabilitation efforts, and a life long community activist and social justice advocate.

Before the Program

I received my BA in Sociology at Humboldt in 2011. I'm the Slam-master at The Humboldt Poetry Slam, which is a monthly event that promotes poetry as a tool for social change. I also have worked for Northcoast Children's Services the last several years as a Home Visitor/Family Worker serving low income families.

Placement

I would like to assess the current rehabilitation programs in Humboldt County. To do that I will develop a survey that students and community members can express their thoughts on what services are needed in our community, so that former offenders can reintegrate back into our community successfully.

I would also like to coordinate the next Criminal Justice Dialogue. This event will empower Criminal Justice students, community members, and stakeholders to assess the community's continuous needs for a safe supportive environment in which all parties interested can educate, and express suggestions for the improvement of Criminal Justice services in Humboldt.

Finally, I would also like to develop the dialogue so that its a 1 unit course at Humboldt for undergraduate students. The course will then strengthen over time and meet the needs of our ever changing community.

Why Humboldt Public Sociology

I choose the Humboldt MA Practicing Sociology program because I believe in this community. There are so many compassionate agencies that strive to support our unique rural area.

Favorite place to see/visit in Humboldt County

The Siren's Song Tavern, College Cove, The Sanctuary, The Trinity River, and Arts Alive in Eureka.