Celebrating Women in Juvenile Justice Women

Women bring unique life experiences to the conversation about juvenile justice. This year, PbS held its inaugural Women’s History Month live webinar, “Moving Juvenile Justice Forward – Women’s Perspectives.” PbS’ Executive Director, Kim Godfrey Lovett, spoke with three extraordinary women who have led critical reforms in juvenile justice:

• Chyrl Jones, Acting Administrator of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Laurie Garduque, Director, Criminal Justice, John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
• Velvet McGowan, Deputy Director, Division of Institutional Services, South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice

They share their insights and experiences on what the culture was like when they first entered the field in relation to gender diversity, the challenges in breaking the glass ceiling, groundbreaking changes they’ve witnessed over the years and what hope they hold for the future of youths in the juvenile justice system. Listen to the conversation here. 

We are also excited to share the diverse voices of some of the many women who have inspired and led juvenile justice over the years. These women ― from all walks of life ― have contributed their knowledge, experience, compassion and kindness to helping young people turn their lives around. We are honored to share some of their compelling stories of what led them on their path through our blog series celebrating women in juvenile justice. Read their stories here.