University News

Forensic Science Students Excel in Competition

Published: December 15, 2017 | Categories: Arts and Sciences, All News
Seniors Cailee D'Amico, James Marzelli, Melissa Pannone, Sean Morris, and Nilsa Salas.

While attending the 2017 Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists (NEAFS) Annual Meeting in Pocono Manor, PA, a team of five forensic science undergraduate students from Western New England University, competed against...

While attending the 2017 Northeastern Association of Forensic Scientists (NEAFS) Annual Meeting in Pocono Manor, PA, a team forensic science undergraduate students from Western New England University, competed against several other universities in the George W. Chin Collegiate Bowl. The team included five seniors, who are also Delta Delta Epsilon Forensic Science Honor Society members, Cailee D’Amico, James Marzelli, Melissa Pannone, Sean Morris, and Nilsa Salas.

Forensic Science TrophyThe competition included students both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, from institution throughout New England, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The Western New England student team won First Place in the undergraduate competition, narrowly missing the highest overall score to a team of graduate students from Boston College. The competition covered a wide range of technical forensic science disciplines, such as ballistics, arson, toxicology, trace evidence, drug chemistry, and frictions ridge skin(fingerprinting). The trophy they earned is displayed in the exhibit case on the 4th Floor of the Center for Science and Pharmacy. 

“I am very proud of the success of our students. They have truly excelled in the demanding curriculum while at Western New England University, and will no doubt continue to succeed in the challenging professional field of forensic science,” said John Drawec associate professor of Physical and Biological Sciences, and Director of Forensic Sciences.

While attending the  three-day conference, the students also attended faculty research poster sessions, networking receptions, professional presentations, and a student forum.

For more information, visit the forensic biology or forensic chemistry academic major programs, or the forensic science minor program.