Alumnus, adjunct professor’s academic journey puts justice, equity, and inclusion at the forefront

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – SEPTEMBER 17, 2024) For alumnus Ian Grugan ’16, ’20, a career at the intersection of academia, criminal justice, and public policy was crucial to meeting his personal and professional goals. As he worked towards his bachelor’s, master’s, and now doctorate degree, he also took part in educating the next generation at his alma mater. 

Grugan’s journey with Empire State University began in 2010 when he enrolled in the human services program. At the time, Grugan said he was interested in exploring criminal justice, political influence, policy, and law. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2013, Grugan took a position with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services and explored ways to pursue an advanced degree in criminal justice.

Grugan decided to continue his education with Empire State University in 2016, enrolling in the Master of Arts in social and public policy program. His efforts earned him a spot in the inaugural PRODiG Scholars Program, which recognizes students from historically underrepresented and underserved populations and works to support them through potential careers in academia.

Grugan used this opportunity to enroll in a Doctor of Criminal Justice program at National University focusing on criminal justice and the LGBTQ community. At the same time, he held a teaching assistant role with Associate Professor Nadine Wedderburn at Empire State University.

“I chose to research a topic that not only resonated with my personal interests, but also had significant implications for my community, specifically the LGBTQ community,” Grugan said. “By integrating my expertise in criminal justice and my community’s experiences and perspectives, I felt honored to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this area.”

Grugan said the experience of earning a doctorate degree, teaching as an adjunct professor, and maintaining his full-time job with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services was demanding, but worthwhile.

“Despite the exhaustion and elation that came with each course completion and teaching assignment, each time I had a passing course or a student who spoke highly of my teaching methods, I was internally driven to succeed even more,” Grugan said.

As an adjunct professor at SUNY Empire, Grugan taught two courses: Introduction to Public Policy and Race, Crime, and Justice. Grugan used his teaching experience and passion for education to create two courses at SUNY Oswego focusing on criminal justice and the queer community and juvenile justice.

“Teaching both in-person and online allowed me to reach students not only across New York State, but across the United States,” Grugan said. “Witnessing students grow and return to future courses because of their appreciation for my instruction has been incredibly fulfilling and I’m committed to continuing to teach at the collegiate level for as long as possible.”

Grugan used his newly earned doctorate degree and combined experience in government, teaching, and academia to earn a new role with the United States Department of Justice. Now, he plans on publishing his dissertation and presenting his work at prominent conferences in criminal justice and criminology. Most importantly, he said his research efforts are far from over.

“I plan to expand my research to incorporate diverse perspectives from the LGBTQ community, as well as from other underrepresented groups who face barriers to living authentically,” Grugan said. “My ultimate goal is to contribute meaningfully to the development of policies and practices that promote justice, equity, and inclusivity.”