Kenneth Cairns

Dr. Kenneth Cairns serves as Chairperson of the Criminal Justice and Social Science Department and Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Waynesburg University, alongside his role as University Counselor. He holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from Case Western Reserve University (1992) and prior to academia, spent over 20 years in the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, culminating in his role as Western Regional Psychologist Manager overseeing mental health services for 16,000 inmates across eight prisons.

Education:

• B.A., Adelphi University
• M.A. & Ph.D., Case Western Reserve University

His expertise spans forensic psychology, crisis intervention, and behavioral analysis. He led hostage negotiation and critical incident stress management teams, and authored a 2023 textbook on forensic psychology. Notably, he received the 2018 Department of Corrections Outstanding Employee Performance Award for his contributions to policy development and mental health oversight.

Dr. Cairns has conducted national speaking engagements on topics including serial killings, personality disorders, and correctional system dynamics. His work bridges academic research with practical applications in criminal justice and mental health management.