Thirty-four students from the WVU FIS program attended this event. Students had the opportunity to attend workshops and lectures to further their knowledge in the field of forensic science. Attendance at the conference also provided students with the opportunity to network with professionals in the field, a skill that is very important.
Two posters presented by WVU students won first and second place. Reem Karimi, Becca Walls, Mindy Dills, and Jordan Mink presented their research titled “Effect of Post-Shooting Activity on Distance Determination by Analysis of Gunshot Residue” and won first place. Reem comments on her experience saying “I never expected to win because we were the only undergraduate students there! This was my first conference and the first time that I ever communicated with forensic professionals. This was one of the best experiences I have had at WVU—it was the highlight of my college career!”
Additionally, on the night of April 22nd, Kelly Ayers, a professor from the Department of Forensic and Investigative Science, was installed as the 56th President of the CBD-IAI for the 2017-2018 term. In her Presidential Message, Kelly noted that she is privileged to have the opportunity to lead such a dynamic group of forensic professionals. We congratulate her and wish her success in her future endeavors as president.
The spring 2018 CBD-IAI meeting will be held at West Virginia University.