Christen Shea

Christen Shea is a faculty member at Polk State College, where she serves as Program Director for both the Criminal Justice Technology Associate in Science program and the Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice launched in 2012. Affiliated with the College of Social Sciences and Department of Criminal Justice, her career spans 19 years in law enforcement with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office alongside academic leadership in criminal justice education.

Education:

• Baccalaureate in Criminology (2001) from Saint Leo University
• Master’s degree in Public Administration (2003) from Troy State University
• Certified Public Manager certification from Florida State University
• 18 graduate hours in Criminal Justice Administration from Saint Leo University

Her research and administrative focus lies in criminal justice systems, community policing, and law enforcement training. She received the Purple Heart and Meritorious Service medals from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office for her service as a patrol deputy, detective, and training instructor.