Recapping Research with Professor Vaughn Crichlow

October 30, 2022
Vaughn Crichlow
Professor Vaughn Crichlow

Dr. Vaughn Crichlow is the incoming Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy’s (IMRP) Research Director. He will also be joining the School of Public Policy (SPP) as an Associate Research Professor. Vaughn comes to SPP from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) where he served as an Associate Dean and Associate Professor in the College of Social Work and Criminal Justice.

Vaughn’s recent work has included leading an evaluation team in Palm Beach County (PBC), Florida. The team is conducting a process and outcome evaluation of the PBC Trauma-Informed Training Initiative.

Criminal justice professionals from across the county are engaging with the Initiatives. Participants hail from the Sheriff’s Office, local law enforcement agencies, court personnel, the Public Defender, PBC Fire Rescue, representatives from institutional and community corrections and community services. The inaugural workshops were held at the Lake Worth Campus of Palm Beach State College from September 19-22.

During Phase 1 of the project, the evaluation team has:

  • Consulted with stakeholders during workshop planning.
  • Consulted with content experts at Policy Research Associates and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
  • Developed and conducted pre- and post-training surveys for workshop participants.
  • Attended two “train-the-trainer” workshops.

After the conclusion of the “train-the-trainer” series, participants are encouraged to implement trauma-informed training at their respective agencies. The evaluation team will assist CJC with technical support and the assessment of trainer effectiveness.

Vaughn and his team will ultimately determine if the training has increased awareness regarding the impact of trauma and the usage of trauma-informed responses on the job. Programmatic scope and effectiveness will be examined through qualitative and quantitative data. The team will also develop policy recommendations regarding best practices for trauma-informed training.

While at SPP, Vaughn will continue his work through a partnership between IMRP, FAU and Florida stakeholders. Join us in welcoming Vaughn to the SPP Network!