Barbara Koons-Witt

Barbara Koons-Witt is a Professor in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of South Carolina. Her research examines how gender shapes the experiences of women in the criminal justice system, with particular focus on maternal incarceration, correctional policies, and sentencing disparities. She teaches undergraduate courses in Research Methods and Women, Gender, and Crime, as well as graduate seminars on Gender, Crime, and Justice and Criminal Justice Survey.

• Ph.D. (2000), Michigan State University - Social Science and Criminal Justice
• M.A. (1991), Temple University - Criminal Justice
• B.A. (1988), Temple University - Criminal Justice

Dr. Koons-Witt’s research highlights systemic biases and gender-specific challenges in corrections and courts. Her work appears in Criminal Justice and Behavior, Feminist Criminology, and Punishment & Society, addressing issues like parent-child separation, prison labor disparities, and rehabilitation program effectiveness. Recent articles emphasize community corrections gender dynamics and family reunification post-incarceration.