Melvina Sumter

Melvina Sumter is Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Old Dominion University. Her research focuses on correctional systems, examining prisoner reentry challenges, correctional officer safety, and therapeutic interventions in carceral settings, with international work in Trinidad and Tobago.

She has secured significant grant funding for initiatives addressing prison violence prevention and community reintegration programs. Her pioneering studies on meditation benefits in corrections have influenced rehabilitative practices across multiple jurisdictions.

• Diversity of Champions Award, ODU (2016)
• Multiple NABJC awards for criminal justice scholarship