World Travelling Prof
The year of 2016 saw Justice Studies Professor John Winterdyk travel to over a dozen countries while engaging in various academic activities ranging from his widely successful 15th bi-annual European Criminal Justice Study Tour, to a series of conferences, and a bevy of invited presentations. Prior to his most recent trip to India (Dec. 8-19th), John travelled to China to put the finishing touches to what will be his first Criminal Justice Field School to China which will take place in May 2018. He already has more than 18 eager students registered.
His final international trip of the year took John to India (for the first time) where he was invited to present at two different universities and where he met with an Indian based NGO to discuss and explore the feasibility of participating in a human trafficking project. He wrapped up his trip by attending and presenting at the 18th World Criminology Congress in New Delhi and presented with the official distinction as one of the prominent speakers.
Although he enjoyed the academic experiences and opportunities, it was the social and cultural experiences that were the most impressionable for him. From the chaotic congestion in such cities as Delhi, oppressive pollution in places, and the extremes in the social and living conditions of the people, his emotional and visual senses were not only overwhelmed but the trip also heightened his sense of social justice and value of fundamental human rights. In the face of what appeared to be such adversity for many, he never openly witnessed grief, any sense of hopelessness, and/or self-pity, but sensed an air of optimism. While it might not be a trip for everyone, it was an experience that he will never forget and is already looking forward to a return trip in 2017 as a result of several invitations he has already received.
