Press Release
CNA Leader Supports the Next Generation of Criminology Analysts
CNA Principal Scientist Scott Decker has capped off a distinguished career studying law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice by establishing a scholarship for criminology and criminal justice students at Arizona State University (ASU).
“I have been doing this work for a very long time and have had the opportunity to help improve the quality of justice through data analysis,” said Decker. “However, I consider the Decker Family Scholarship fund one of the most rewarding accomplishments of my career. I hope that students interested in the field can use the scholarship to solidify their career aspirations.”
Decker is a criminologist with over 45 years of experience. At CNA, he serves as a lead on numerous research studies and is a subject matter expert on the Smart Policing Initiative, Body Worn Camera Training and Technical Assistance program, Prosecutors Research Collaborative, and the Project on American Justice.
Decker is an ASU professor emeritus, credited with building the ASU School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, where he served as director until 2014. In 2008, Decker oversaw the creation of ASU’s criminology and criminal justice Ph.D. program, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.
Decker is the 2022 recipient of the August Vollmer Award from the American Society of Criminology, recognizing his commitment to bridging the gap between research and practice.
CNA is a nonprofit research and analysis organization dedicated to the safety and security of the nation. It operates the Center for Naval Analyses—the federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) of the Department of the Navy—as well as the Institute for Public Research. CNA develops actionable solutions to complex problems of national importance. With nearly 700 scientists, analysts, and professional staff, CNA takes a real-world approach to gathering data. Its unique Field Program places analysts on aircraft carriers and military bases, in squad rooms and crisis centers, working side by side with operators and decision-makers around the world. CNA supports naval operations, fleet readiness, and strategic competition. Its non-defense research portfolio includes criminal justice, homeland security, and data management.
Note to writers and editors: CNA is not an acronym and is correctly referenced as "CNA, a research organization in Arlington, VA."