Victim Studies Professors Recognized by National Organization

Dr. Shelly Clevenger

“These are very competitive awards,” SHSU Department of Victim Studies Chair Dr. Shelly Clevenger said. “There’s usually a lot of nominations and I feel honored they would pick me.” Dr. Clevenger is this year’s ASC DWC Distinguished Scholar Award recipient, which honors the exceptional contributions to the field of women and crime by an established scholar.  “Shelly goes above and beyond every requirement because she truly cares,” Dr. Boppre said. “She genuinely, authentically cares about survivors through her research.”

Dr. Bree Boppre

Dr. Bree Boppre is this year’s ASC DWC New Scholar Award Recipient. The award salutes scholars who demonstrate distinguished merit and achievements at the beginning of their career. “One of the reasons Bree and I get along so well is we both have the same passions,” Dr. Clevenger said. “We both care about the community.” The New Scholar Award was presented to Dr. Clevenger in 2018, which makes this recognition even more meaningful to Dr. Boppre. “When I was a graduate student, I went to the DWC breakfast,” Dr. Boppre said. “I saw Shelly win the DWC New Scholar award. So, winning this award is extra meaningful.”

Both professors say being recognized by the American Society of Criminology’s Division on Women and Crime is meaningful to them because of the opportunities the organization has provided them throughout their careers. “I’ve been involved with the DWC since 2008. It has been a home for me,” Dr. Clevenger said.

Both professors will receive their awards during the American Society of Criminology’s annual conference this November in Atlanta, GA. While they’re honored to be recognized, they stress what motivates them is helping survivors and the community. “We want our work to make a difference,” Dr. Boppre said. “That’s one thing I’m really proud of.”

For more information on the American Society of Criminology’s Division on Women and Crime, visit their website, https://ascdwc.com/. To learn more about the College of Criminal Justice’s Department of Victim Studies, visit https://www.shsu.edu/academics/victim-studies/.