John Riley, Assistant Professor with the Justice Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage, is undertaking an examination of the attitudes of Alaska Natives toward careers with the correctional system. One of the ultimate goals of the project is to contribute to increased possibilities for employment within the justice system for Alaska Natives.
The idea for the study developed from discussions with the Department of Corrections on how to improve recruitment efforts. Beginning in fall 1998, Riley will conduct focus groups with young adults living in areas where there are opportunities for employment with the state correctional system: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Bethel, Kenai-Soldotna, Seward and Nome.
A final report for the study will be released by fall 1999. The project, which will cost approximately $50,000, is being funded from a gift made to the university by CIRI. Further information about the project can be obtained from the Justice Center (786-1810).
