Photo: Stella Kalinina
Graduates of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice program came together to celebrate with their families, friends, and peers for the USC Bovard College commencement ceremony on Friday, May 16, 2025. A total of 65 graduates received their master’s degrees in Criminal Justice, working across education, law, law enforcement, and the military, among other fields.
MSCJ graduates Brianna Figueroa and Ivan Verdin received the Order of Arête, an award that acknowledges their academic excellence, outstanding leadership, and significant contributions to the university and community. When asked about his biggest achievement in the program, Verdin shared that it was applying what he has learned to support his local community, remarking, “Over the past year, I have volunteered at several expungement clinics, helping individuals impacted by the criminal justice system reduce the barriers a criminal record creates for employment and housing. To me, knowledge is most valuable when it’s used to help others.” Verdin also shared his plans after graduating: “I plan to begin a career in investigations, either in the courts or with a public agency. I am also looking forward to taking a summer vacation with my family to celebrate this incredible milestone.”
Commencement is an exciting time not only for students, families and friends but also for USC faculty. This year, four program faculty were in attendance: Stephen Abanise, Mari Kong, Mischelle Van Brakle, and Miji John Vellakkatel. When asked what her favorite part of commencement was, Professor Mari Kong responded, “As a professor, I find it satisfying and joyful to see students filled with happiness as they walk across the stage to collect their degrees. I get to think about when I first met them, and now I get to watch them finish their degrees.”
Professor Stephen Abanise also expressed his enthusiasm toward commencement, mentioning that the most exciting part of commencement is “witnessing the culmination and overall individual and collective achievements of the graduating class. These achievements are evident in their overall perseverance in analyzing academic research, while balancing career, personal, and family commitments.” Professor Abanise also added that “it is always an honor to witness graduating students advance their career pursuits and commitment towards improving their respective communities and society at large.”
Amid all of the excitement, MSCJ faculty members also had some friendly words of advice for the graduates. “Please take some time to rest and get grounded before jumping into a new graduate program or job. Education is something that no one can ever take away from you,” Professor Kong advised. Professor Abanise reminds graduates that they have “developed lifelong student and faculty colleagues, and a USC alumni network that will be meaningful to your career pursuits beyond graduation. Fight On and continue to remain engaged with the USC community.”
Designed to fit students’ schedules, the MSCJ curriculum is provided in both a one- and two-year track. At 24 units, the program can be completed in just 12 months for students in the one-year track. No GRE is required, and students have their choice of three enrollment dates each year.
Watch the 2025 commencement ceremony here.