Grand Canyon University has a vast variety of organizations and clubs that offer students’ beyond-classroom experience and hands-on activities that expand on the theoretical framework presented in classrooms.
Among such organizations is the Lopes Justice Society, which was established in 2010. Since its founding, it has massively developed in its unique activities and field experiences. The club is a great opportunity for criminal justice majors to explore beyond theoretical concepts and ideas and dive into field experiences, such as police ride-alongs, shooting range, hands-on simulation exercises with law enforcement officers and a series of speakers from the law enforcement field who provide insight into a variety of professions and the ways to build a career in the field.
The Lopes Justice Society has a dedicated president whose energy and dedication makes it possible to invite the great speakers from various criminal justice branches. The leadership team and the club’s advisor, who is also a professor at GCU, work behind the scenes to present the club with novel ideas and hands-on activities.
Moreover, members of the club can participate in regional and local competitions, during which they can master their skills in physical fitness, handling firearms and examining crime scenes, while also learning concept-based material. At the end of each semester, the leadership team along with its members celebrate the end of the semester as well as honor the winners from each competition and the club’s members for their participation.