Senior Instructor, Criminology Department

Paula has maintained a lifelong conviction that domestic violence prevention and being an advocate against domestic abuse is her true calling.  Her university work and personal passions combine to help Paula make a direct impact on the residents of Springfield and Greene County.  Taking on a variety of roles in her years of service, she has served on the Board of Directors for Harmony House, been instrumental in the Greene County Family Violence Task Force and more recently, The Rebound Foundation.  Paula has touched the lives of countless individuals and families who have suffered from domestic violence and assault, working to provide them with recovery resources, education and safe living environments.

In addition to working directly with families, Paula was instrumental in the foundation of the Greene County Family Justice Center.  For over two years, this one-stop center has helped provide a range of services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, human trafficking and child abuse in the Springfield/Greene County area. Through The Rebound Foundation, founded by Dana and Christina Ford, Paula is working with prevention, offering workshops to area middle-school health students to help build a culture of nonviolence in youth and teach to the foundations of safe and healthy relationships.

Domestic and relationship violence is a difficult and prevalent issue throughout our community.  Paula’s passion drives her commitment to volunteer and provide a constant state of empathy and compassion to those she serves. She has provided the below resources for anyone who may be struggling, need assistance or for anyone who would like to volunteer.

The Rebound Foundation, The Victim Center, Greene County Family Justice Center, Harmony House

Interview and spotlight provided by Cole Howerton, student assistant, Office of Public Affairs Support.