Women in Criminal Justice Conference
The Hampden County Sheriff’s Office established the Women in Criminal Justice (WICJ) Conference in 1997 to create a dedicated forum for women working across the many disciplines of the criminal justice system. What began as a local initiative to highlight the contributions of women in the field has grown into a regional event that brings together professionals from courts, corrections, law enforcement, and beyond.
A Forum for Leadership and Change
The conference was founded to provide a platform where women could come together to share experiences, build connections, and address the challenges they encounter in traditionally male-dominated environments. From the start, it has served as a hub for professional development, offering opportunities for participants to learn from experts, engage in skills-building workshops, and collaborate on solutions to common issues.
Growth Over the Years
Since its inception, the Women in Criminal Justice Conference has expanded significantly in both scope and impact. The agenda has grown to include keynote addresses, breakout sessions, and panel discussions led by leaders in criminal justice, with a focus on fostering inclusivity, mentorship, and professional growth.
Beyond the sessions, the conference has also placed an emphasis on community engagement. Over the years, it has incorporated diverse vendors, informational tabling, and opportunities for participants to connect with organizations that support women in their careers and personal lives.
Building the Future
At its core, the WICJ Conference remains committed to addressing long-standing barriers within the criminal justice system and creating pathways for advancement.
Looking ahead, the conference continues to emphasize mentorship, leadership development, skill-building, and work-life balance. The planning committee works year-round to ensure the event remains current, relevant, and inclusive, drawing in new perspectives and agencies each year.
WICJ 2025 Recap
Held on Thursday, April 17, the Women in Criminal Justice Conference Committee welcomed over 200 attendees through the doors at the 28th annual conference. The theme, "Strength in Service: Women Redefining Justice and Leadership" was displayed throughout the day by the impressive speaker lineup.
The keynote speaker was Major Kathryn J. Downey, Troop A Commander, Massachusetts State Police – the highest ranking female officer in the Massachusetts State Police. Other presenters are as follows.
Workshop facilitators included:
- Chief Jennifer Gunderson, South Hadley Police Department
- Lauren Corthell, Boulder Crest Foundation "Struggle Well"
- Janice Perez, Massachusetts Department of Correction
- Chief Deanna Strout, Dalton Police Department
- Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Suhl, Northwestern District Attorney's Office
- Director of Operations Martha Murphy Kane, Northwestern District Attorney's Office
Plenary Panelists included:
- Homeland Security Deputy Special Agent Amy Iacoi
- Secret Service Special Agent Kerry Meade
- Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Victoria Edwards
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Kimberly Milka
- Corporal Mia Piazza, Hampden County Sheriff's Office-Task Force
Check out news coverage of the 28th Women in Criminal Justice Conference here.
The 29th annual Women in Criminal Justice Conference will be held in 2026. Details will be posted here.