Cyndy Caravelis

Cyndy Caravelis is a Professor in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Western Carolina University's College of Arts and Sciences. She holds a PhD from Florida State University (2007) and specializes in police practices, interpersonal violence, and social justice.

Her research examines systemic inequalities in criminal justice, with publications in Justice Quarterly and the Journal of Quantitative Criminology. She co-authored Social Justice, Criminal Justice, analyzing law as a tool for both oppression and social change.

Awards recognizing her contributions include:

• Innovative Scholarship Award (2024)
• Paul A. Reid Distinguished Service Award (2023)
• Chancellor's Distinguished Teaching Award (2021)

As co-founder of the Community Care Program, she secured over $500,000 in grants from Dogwood Health Trust and others to embed social workers in police departments. She has served as a legislative analyst, crime intelligence analyst, and expert witness.