In the Spotlight!
Dana Morgan
Dana Morgan is a graduate student in the International Crime and Justice M.A. program at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she is also pursuing an Advanced Certificate in Transnational Organized Crime Studies. With a perfect academic record and a commitment to international security, Dana began applying her studies through hands-on engagement with the United Nations. She first studied at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Vienna, Austria, where she authored a case brief on terrorism and arms trafficking that was later published by the UN SHERLOC Case Law Database. Building on that experience, Dana was selected as a Global Diplomacy Fellow with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in New York, where, under the mentorship of Ambassador Yuriy Sergeyev, she published a paper examining transnational organized crime and its impact on the international political economy, with a focus on the crime-terror nexus, gender, sanctions, and global security.
In addition to her research, Dana currently serves as a Youth Representative to the United Nations for the International Sociological Association and as a Graduate Representative on the John Jay Student Council, where she advocates for graduate student interests. Her upcoming internship with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and prior experience with the Monmouth County Sheriff's Office reflect her dedication to intelligence and public service. This fall, Dana will continue her studies at Columbia University, focusing on international relations and the political economy. With a growing portfolio of field experience, research, and leadership, Dana is committed to shaping global policy solutions at the intersection of crime, security, and diplomacy.
Gianna Sparacino
Gianna Sparacino is a dedicated scholar currently pursuing a Master of Arts in International Crime and Justice at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, with an advanced certificate in Transnational Organized Crime Studies. Her academic journey integrates a robust interdisciplinary foundation, combining her understanding of human behavior with theoretical and practical insights into criminal justice. She is committed to addressing complex global security challenges through education in innovative policy reform and international collaboration through rigorous coursework, such as ICJ 765: Intelligence in National Security and Policing and ICJ 755: Terrorism and Transnational Crime, provided by the program.
Gianna’s academic pursuits are complemented by a dynamic array of leadership roles and professional achievements. She serves as the Student Governance Representative for the 2024–2025 academic year, representing her peers and advocating for initiatives that enhance student engagement and academic development. Additionally, Gianna was an active participant in the Global Diplomacy Initiative at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). As part of this program, she contributed to the publication of Cyber-Global Security Nexus: Analysis of its Contributions Towards International Cooperation and Extradition, a paper exploring the intersections of cybersecurity and international policy in an increasingly interconnected world. She is also acknowledged as a contributor for the UNODC SHERLOC Case Law Database.
Her professional experience involves interning with the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Major Crime Bureau, where she observed cases involving sexual assault, school safety, and complex investigations. She also interned with the Nassau County Police Department’s Asset Forfeiture & Intelligence Bureau, where she focused on intelligence-sharing initiatives on Long Island. This role provided her with hands-on experience using investigative analysis software and reinforced her ability to collaborate effectively in high-pressure environments. Through these internships, Gianna honed her skills in investigative strategy, intelligence gathering, and legal frameworks, preparing her for the multifaceted challenges of a future in federal law enforcement and intelligence operations.
Abie Rampersad
As a graduate student in the International Crime and Justice (ICJ) Master’s program at John Jay College, I have been fortunate to explore and expand my passion for justice, investigation, and international crime. My academic journey began at St. Francis College, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, with a minor in Business. While I initially aspired to work in the medical field, my undergraduate studies and personal reflection led me to realize that my true passion lies in solving complex problems and contributing to justice through the field of crime scene investigation.
The ICJ program at John Jay has been transformative in shaping my career path. The program’s interdisciplinary approach, combined with the expertise and mentorship of faculty, has allowed me to delve deeply into criminological theories, investigative techniques, and the global dynamics of crime and justice. With the encouragement of my professors and mentors, I am excited to be interning next semester with the International Rescue Committee (IRC), an opportunity that will give me valuable insight into addressing international crime and justice issues while also exposing me to culturally sensitive responses to conflict and human rights violations.
Beyond academics, the program has equipped me with critical skills such as analytical thinking, cross-cultural communication, and evidence-based decision-making, all of which are essential for pursuing a successful career in crime scene investigation. I am particularly interested in integrating my background in biology with advanced forensic methods to uncover and interpret evidence that can bring clarity and resolution to complex cases.
In the future, I aspire to work as a crime scene investigator, contributing not only to solving crimes but also to advancing investigative practices and ensuring justice is served on both local and global levels. The support and opportunities I have, and continue to, received at John Jay have been instrumental in preparing me for this path, and I hope my journey encourages incoming students to embrace the challenges and opportunities the ICJ program offers. By combining academic rigor, practical experience, and a passion for justice, I believe the ICJ program empowers students to make meaningful contributions to the field of criminal justice. I am proud to be part of a community that shares a commitment to advancing justice and making a difference in the world.
MoSiao Fang
MoSiao Fang is an accomplished security professional with over a decade of experience in security management, maritime law enforcement, and criminal justice. With a Master’s degree in International Crime and Justice (ICJ) from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, MoSiao has honed skills in crime analysis, risk assessment, and project management. The rigorous coursework, such as ICJ 700: International Crime and Justice Theory and ICJ 715: Research Methods, provided by the program has enhanced his analytical and critical thinking abilities, equipping him to tackle complex global crime and justice challenges. Recommended by the Program Director, he seized the opportunity to participate in the Global Development Initiative Fellowship Program through the United Nations Initiative for Training and Research (UNITAR), conducting research under the mentorship of former ambassadors and diplomats. Additionally, he earned an Advanced Certificate in Transnational Organized Crime Studies (ACTOCS) as part of this program.
By integrating criminological theories, international development, and legal expertise, the ICJ program provided a multidisciplinary foundation for crafting innovative solutions to transnational crimes, strengthening his knowledge of comparative criminal justice systems globally, and expanding future opportunities. These included internships with the Department of Investigation, New York City Government, and the Department of Safety and Security at the UN Headquarters, which culminated in his recognition as a recipient of the “Wen First Gen” Scholarship.
These diverse experiences, spanning transnational crime analyses—such as terrorism, drug smuggling, and human trafficking—to addressing environmental issues like illegal wildlife trade and IUU fishing, reflect MoSiao’s strong commitment to enhancing global security operations and promoting justice in his ongoing career journey.