Visit Builds Foundation for Collaboration Opportunities with University in Albania

In December 2024, the University of New Haven had the distinct honor of hosting a delegation from the University of Tirana, Albania, as part of a collaborative visit supported by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Presence in Albania. This milestone visit, led by Rector Artan Hoxha and Dean Dorina Hoxha of the Law School at the University of Tirana, represented a critical step in fostering innovation and excellence in criminology education and research.

The University of New Haven warmly welcomed the delegation, with engagements led by President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D.; Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Nancy Savage, Ph.D.; Vice President for Government Affairs and Global Engagement Mario Gaboury, Ph.D.; Interim Dean of the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences David Schroeder, Ph.D.; and Lee College Acting Associate Dean Michael Lawlor, J.D.

I was pleased to serve as the liaison between the two universities, helping to facilitate the visit with my colleagues.

A highlight of the visit was the signing of a letter of intent of collaboration between the University of New Haven and the University of Tirana, formalizing our shared commitment to advancing academic partnerships, faculty and student exchanges, and joint research initiatives.

The delegation also had the opportunity to meet with world-renowned forensic scientist Dr. Henry C. Lee, and they also participated in a presentation and tour of the Henry C. Lee Forensic Institute, led by Dr. Brooke Kammrath and Dr. Claire Glynn. This visit showcased the Institute’s state-of-the-art forensic science applications and underscored the importance of bridging theory and practice in higher education.

Additionally, the delegation engaged in dynamic discussions with senior faculty and researchers from the Criminal Justice Department, exchanging ideas on curriculum development, criminology research, and innovative teaching methods.

The visit also included a meaningful exploration of Connecticut’s legal and political landscape, coordinated by Prof. Lawlor. This included meetings with Connecticut State Representative Michael Quinn, Connecticut State Senator Martin Looney, and Connecticut Supreme Court Justice Andrew McDonald at the State Capitol and the state Supreme Court, respectively.

This visit solidifies the University of New Haven’s role as a leader in fostering global academic partnerships and strengthens our shared vision of advancing education, research, and practical innovation in criminology. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with the University of Tirana and contributing to the future of global criminal justice education.