J.Z. Bennett

Dr. J.Z. Bennett serves as an Assistant Professor in the School of Criminal Justice at the University of Cincinnati, specializing in juvenile justice reform and criminological theory. His academic foundation includes B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. degrees in Criminal Justice from Temple University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh's Center for Urban Education.

Research focuses on juvenile life without parole policies, developmental pathways in criminal behavior, and educational interventions for at-risk youth. His work bridges academic theory with community action through prison education initiatives and youth leadership development programs.

Dr. Bennett co-founded the Urban Youth Leadership Academy and actively participates in The Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program® and Graterford Think Tank. Major funded research includes:

• Arnold Ventures Grant ($861,692): National outcomes study on decarceration for juvenile lifers (Co-PI, 2022-2025)
• Department of Education Grant ($987,871): Transitioning gang-impacted youth to higher education (Collaborator, 2023-2026)

Key recognition includes the Ronald E. McNair Scholar fellowship that launched his research career. His community-university partnerships emphasize practical applications of criminological research to reduce recidivism and support educational access for marginalized populations.