Dean’s Message

Welcome to the College of Public Affairs and Societal Impact (CoPASI) at Prairie View A&M University.

CoPASI prepares the next generation of leaders, professionals, and change agents committed to strengthening communities, advancing justice, improving governance, and creating meaningful societal impact. Bringing together Criminal Justice, Juvenile Justice, Political Science, and Social Work, our College addresses society's most pressing challenges through education, research, and service.

As a proud part of Prairie View A&M University, a distinguished Historically Black University and land-grant institution, CoPASI is committed to transformative education, interdisciplinary scholarship, and community engagement. Our students learn from accomplished faculty, engage in hands-on learning opportunities, and develop the knowledge, skills, and leadership abilities needed to excel in government, nonprofit organizations, advocacy, public service, and the private sector.

What makes CoPASI exceptional is our commitment to connecting knowledge with action. Through partnerships with communities, policymakers, practitioners, and organizations, our faculty and students develop evidence-informed solutions to complex societal issues. The Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center and the Ruth J. Simmons Center for Race and Justice further amplify our impact through research, training, public engagement, and policy innovation that improve lives and strengthen communities.

Guided by an ambitious strategic vision, we are investing in student success, expanding research excellence, increasing community impact, and strengthening partnerships with alumni and supporters. Our goal is to be a premier institution in Texas and a nationally recognized leader in public affairs and societal transformation.

Whether you are a student, alumnus, community partner, or donor, I invite you to join us in shaping a stronger future. For our donors and supporters, your investment helps provide scholarships, experiential learning opportunities, faculty research support, and community-engaged initiatives that expand opportunity and create lasting societal impact. Together, we can empower future leaders, advance innovative solutions, and strengthen communities across Texas and beyond.

Thank you for your interest in CoPASI. I invite you to explore our programs, engage with our mission, and become part of a College dedicated to transforming lives through public service, scholarship, and impact.

Kareem L. Jordan, Ph.D.
Dean and Professor
College of Public Affairs and Societal Impact