My work concerns identification of unknown decedents in domestic medicolegal casework and international humanitarian contexts. I am particularly interested in processes that adversely affect identification of unknown persons from marginalized or at-risk communities. Address: International Committee of the Red Cross 1100 Connecticut Avenue NW #500 Washington, DC 20036
Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, ... more Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, the number, type of, and relationships between actors and institutions involved may necessitate nuanced interpretations of forensic science ethics. Reading across border death initiatives in Arizona, this chapter considers how forensic science in a context of humanitarian crisis may in some ways be distinct from forensic science practiced in other contexts.
Sociopolitics of Migrant Death and Repatriation, 2017
Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, ... more Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, the number, type of, and relationships between actors and institutions involved may necessitate nuanced interpretations of forensic science ethics. Reading across border death initiatives in Arizona, this chapter considers how forensic science in a context of humanitarian crisis may in some ways be distinct from forensic science practiced in other contexts.
Mentorship can be defined as the person-to-person transmission of knowledge in a domain where one... more Mentorship can be defined as the person-to-person transmission of knowledge in a domain where one person has more experience than the other. Formal mentorship programs and awards have recently been implemented in the field of forensic anthropology, but the attitudes of forensic anthropologists toward mentors, protégés, and mentorship experiences have not been systematically explored. This study surveyed a sample of 123 forensic anthropology practitioners and students via 23 multiple-choice and 12 open-answer questions regarding their demographic information, opinions about mentorship, and experiences as both mentors and protégés. Results indicated that forensic anthropologists value both traditional, “top-down” mentorship interactions and “horizontal” peer-to-peer relationships with multiple mentors. Respondents emphasized the career and professionalism advice they received from their mentors, though some wished for additional guidance in social interactions and social issues. Demog...
This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a pos... more This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a post-World War II human rights abuse sample uncovered in Vilnius, Lithuania. After briefly reviewing the typical wound appearance of projectile trauma in the cranium, we discuss the presence of an intact bone plug associated with a gunshot exit wound in an individual from the Tuskulenai Case. While this individual demonstrated typical gunshot entry and exit wounds to the cranium consistent with high-velocity trauma, the bone plug indicates that the projectile likely lost much of its kinetic energy while traveling through the cranium resulting in a low-velocity impact at the exit site. This study reviews a similar instance of a bone plug recovered from a bioarcheological sample in Peru and emphasizes the importance of thorough archeological excavations of mass graves.
Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropolo... more Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Atlanta, Georgia (2016)
This chapter examines the large scale death of migrants in southern Arizona and the reasons why t... more This chapter examines the large scale death of migrants in southern Arizona and the reasons why this should be viewed as an extended massacre. This mass violence against migrants is perpetrated by the state through U.S. government policies and the militarization of the U.S.-Mexico border. These policies affect the routes used by migrants, often funnelling them through some of the harshest areas of the Sonoran Desert and resulting in many exposure-related deaths. The funnelling of migrants into dangerous terrain is intentional and aimed at deterring unauthorized migration. In this case, the desert itself is the weapon that is used against the victims.
Diversity and inclusion have proven vital for increasing innovation, success, and performance in ... more Diversity and inclusion have proven vital for increasing innovation, success, and performance in a myriad of fields; however, as with many other scientific disciplines, forensic anthropology’s history and lack of critical self-assessment have resulted in impediments to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Therefore, the field should reflect on its current membership and culture and devise strategies to address deficiencies. To begin evaluating the current state of diversity and inclusion in forensic anthropology, a survey was distributed to Anthropology Section members of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) in 2018. A total of 211 students and professionals responded, and 32.4% self-identified as a member of an underrepresented group. The results indicate that 63.4% believe that forensic anthropology exhibits little diversity; that 73.4% consider this lack of diversity problematic; and that 84.3% believe the Anthropology Section should do more to recruit and r...
Ethics in forensic science are typically discussed in terms of methodological standards for data ... more Ethics in forensic science are typically discussed in terms of methodological standards for data collection and interpretation. As expert witnesses, it is our duty to operate with high standards of honesty and professional conduct, avoiding bias, falsification of data/results, and misrepresentation of qualifications. However, the technical and scientific conjuring of “ethics” in our field, with a reliance on methods and clinical distancing of bias, neglects our roles as agents who contribute to specific narratives of the dead. As forensic anthropologists, it is our duty to address ethical concerns regarding identification of unknown decedents, especially when the deceased are believed to come from vulnerable populations. Through a review of unidentified decedents in domestic casework (Bird 2015), it is gravely apparent that persons who die in the United States and remain nameless in death frequently come from the most marginalized groups in society. This includes those whose legal standing is in question, those with lower socioeconomic status, those who lack a cohesive group affiliation, and those with transient or semi-transient lifestyles. These individuals frequently lack representation and the socioeconomic capital to advocate on their behalf and are frequently stigmatized in society.
This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a pos... more This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a post-World War II human rights abuse sample uncovered in Vilnius, Lithuania. After briefly reviewing the typical wound appearance of projectile trauma in the cranium, we discuss the presence of an intact bone plug associated with a gunshot exit wound in an individual from the Tuskulenai Case. While this individual demonstrated typical gunshot entry and exit wounds to the cranium consistent with high-velocity trauma, the bone plug indicates that the projectile likely lost much of its kinetic energy while traveling through the cranium resulting in a low-velocity impact at the exit site. This study reviews a similar instance of a bone plug recovered from a bioarcheological sample in Peru and emphasizes the importance of thorough archeological excavations of mass graves.
Lithic artifacts represent the most abundant cultural remains from Middle Stone Age sites in sout... more Lithic artifacts represent the most abundant cultural remains from Middle Stone Age sites in southern Africa. Of these, pointed forms (under a variety of names), blades, and flakes have long been recognized as the three most abundant general types, and retouch on all three is rare relative to similar forms of equivalent age elsewhere. Here we offer a new technique for documenting concentrations of edge damage on an assemblage level to infer taphonomic processes and to record usewear and retouch. This approach is specifically aimed at patterning on the assemblage scale, rather than on individual artifacts. We use points from a Middle Stone Age assemblage from Pinnacle Point Cave 13B, near Mossel Bay, South Africa, to illustrate the technique. Combining GIS, rose diagrams, and polar statistics, we were able to visually and statistically summarize lithic artifacts for patterns of edge damage. For the points made on quartzite in this assemblage, edge damage was found to be significantly patterned and taphonomic causes of the damage were rejected. The technique also opens avenues for many other quantitative analyses that are either impossible or difficult with current non-visual systems of recording, such as measurements of distance, angle, and area of edge damage.
Podium presentation at the 69th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 69th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in New Orleans, Louisiana (2017)- Anthropology Section (A-114)
Podium presentation at the 2nd Disasters, Displacement and Human Rights Conference in Knoxville, ... more Podium presentation at the 2nd Disasters, Displacement and Human Rights Conference in Knoxville, Tennessee (2015)
Podium presentation at the 67th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 67th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Orlando, Florida (2015)- Anthropology Section (A-132)
Podium presentation at the 66th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 66th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Seattle, Washington (2014)- Physical Anthropology Section (H-31)
Podium presentation at the 82nd Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropolo... more Podium presentation at the 82nd Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Knoxville, Tennessee (2013)
Podium presentation at the 65th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 65th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Washington, DC (2013)- Physical Anthropology Section (H-55)
The concept of mentorship originated in ancient Greek mythology and referred to a relationship be... more The concept of mentorship originated in ancient Greek mythology and referred to a relationship between a knowledgeable person (mentor) and a less-experienced person (protégé). Today, mentorship can be conceptualized as the informal transmission of knowledge over a sustained period of time and in a domain in which the mentor and protégé have unequal knowledge. Traditionally, mentors are seen as older, wiser advisors who provide counsel to younger, less-experienced individuals in their professional or social sphere. Certainly, the role of this high-level mentor has been paramount in developing the field of forensic anthropology. However, anyone with greater knowledge in a specific domain who exerts a positive influence on another individual’s professional or social development can be considered a mentor – regardless of age or experience. This presentation contends that peer-to-peer interactions (e.g., leading by example, sharing diverse work experiences, dispensing advice) also qualify as important mentorship behaviors.
This research explores how the roles of mentors and protégés are perceived throughout the diverse academic and applied contexts of the field of forensic anthropology. All users of the AAFS Anthropology Section listserv received a link to an anonymous, IRB-approved Qualtrics.com survey. Instructions encouraged participants to share the survey link with other practitioners of varying skill and experience levels, including students and other non-members. Consenting participants answered 23 multiple-choice and 12 open-answer questions regarding their demographic information, opinions about mentorship, and experiences as both mentors and protégés.
A total of 96 professional forensic anthropologists and anthropology graduate students participated in the survey. The majority of respondents specialized in biological anthropology, had completed a PhD, and worked in the academic or medical-examiner setting. Most had been in the field for fewer than 21 years and were under the age of 45 years. The majority self-identified as being of female gender and European ancestry.
Respondents were nearly unanimous regarding the importance of mentorship in forensic anthropology, and many felt that being mentored directly contributed to their career success. Nearly all respondents had benefitted from the influence of multiple mentors, and many had also mentored multiple protégés. As expected, most respondents reported being mentored by a thesis/dissertation advisor. However, many respondents also reported peers as an important category of mentor (68%); and peers emerged as the most commonly reported category of protégé (75%). More respondents had received mentorship in career-related areas than they had in social interactions and social issues. Likewise, when asked in which areas they desired to provide and receive additional mentorship, more respondents selected these latter, social categories. Still, differences between distributions for mentorship provided/received and additional desired mentorship provided/received were not statistically significant (α=0.05; Wilcoxon rank-sum test; R). Further, the most commonly selected category for additional desired mentorship (both received and provided) was “none” – implying overall satisfaction with the mentorship experience.
This study indicates that the traditional mentorship paradigm is already shifting. In forensic anthropology, the mentorship paradigm does not solely consist of vertical-level interactions, but often includes horizontally oriented interactions. If our future reflects our past, then forensic anthropologists must honor the long-valued (and still valuable) role of the traditional mentor, while emphasizing the non-traditional mentorship behaviors that can enhance the careers and lives of both trainees and experienced practitioners.
Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropolo... more Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Atlanta, Georgia (2016)
Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, ... more Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, the number, type of, and relationships between actors and institutions involved may necessitate nuanced interpretations of forensic science ethics. Reading across border death initiatives in Arizona, this chapter considers how forensic science in a context of humanitarian crisis may in some ways be distinct from forensic science practiced in other contexts.
Sociopolitics of Migrant Death and Repatriation, 2017
Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, ... more Forensic science is bound by a particular code of ethics. However, in the case of border deaths, the number, type of, and relationships between actors and institutions involved may necessitate nuanced interpretations of forensic science ethics. Reading across border death initiatives in Arizona, this chapter considers how forensic science in a context of humanitarian crisis may in some ways be distinct from forensic science practiced in other contexts.
Mentorship can be defined as the person-to-person transmission of knowledge in a domain where one... more Mentorship can be defined as the person-to-person transmission of knowledge in a domain where one person has more experience than the other. Formal mentorship programs and awards have recently been implemented in the field of forensic anthropology, but the attitudes of forensic anthropologists toward mentors, protégés, and mentorship experiences have not been systematically explored. This study surveyed a sample of 123 forensic anthropology practitioners and students via 23 multiple-choice and 12 open-answer questions regarding their demographic information, opinions about mentorship, and experiences as both mentors and protégés. Results indicated that forensic anthropologists value both traditional, “top-down” mentorship interactions and “horizontal” peer-to-peer relationships with multiple mentors. Respondents emphasized the career and professionalism advice they received from their mentors, though some wished for additional guidance in social interactions and social issues. Demog...
This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a pos... more This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a post-World War II human rights abuse sample uncovered in Vilnius, Lithuania. After briefly reviewing the typical wound appearance of projectile trauma in the cranium, we discuss the presence of an intact bone plug associated with a gunshot exit wound in an individual from the Tuskulenai Case. While this individual demonstrated typical gunshot entry and exit wounds to the cranium consistent with high-velocity trauma, the bone plug indicates that the projectile likely lost much of its kinetic energy while traveling through the cranium resulting in a low-velocity impact at the exit site. This study reviews a similar instance of a bone plug recovered from a bioarcheological sample in Peru and emphasizes the importance of thorough archeological excavations of mass graves.
Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropolo... more Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Atlanta, Georgia (2016)
This chapter examines the large scale death of migrants in southern Arizona and the reasons why t... more This chapter examines the large scale death of migrants in southern Arizona and the reasons why this should be viewed as an extended massacre. This mass violence against migrants is perpetrated by the state through U.S. government policies and the militarization of the U.S.-Mexico border. These policies affect the routes used by migrants, often funnelling them through some of the harshest areas of the Sonoran Desert and resulting in many exposure-related deaths. The funnelling of migrants into dangerous terrain is intentional and aimed at deterring unauthorized migration. In this case, the desert itself is the weapon that is used against the victims.
Diversity and inclusion have proven vital for increasing innovation, success, and performance in ... more Diversity and inclusion have proven vital for increasing innovation, success, and performance in a myriad of fields; however, as with many other scientific disciplines, forensic anthropology’s history and lack of critical self-assessment have resulted in impediments to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Therefore, the field should reflect on its current membership and culture and devise strategies to address deficiencies. To begin evaluating the current state of diversity and inclusion in forensic anthropology, a survey was distributed to Anthropology Section members of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) in 2018. A total of 211 students and professionals responded, and 32.4% self-identified as a member of an underrepresented group. The results indicate that 63.4% believe that forensic anthropology exhibits little diversity; that 73.4% consider this lack of diversity problematic; and that 84.3% believe the Anthropology Section should do more to recruit and r...
Ethics in forensic science are typically discussed in terms of methodological standards for data ... more Ethics in forensic science are typically discussed in terms of methodological standards for data collection and interpretation. As expert witnesses, it is our duty to operate with high standards of honesty and professional conduct, avoiding bias, falsification of data/results, and misrepresentation of qualifications. However, the technical and scientific conjuring of “ethics” in our field, with a reliance on methods and clinical distancing of bias, neglects our roles as agents who contribute to specific narratives of the dead. As forensic anthropologists, it is our duty to address ethical concerns regarding identification of unknown decedents, especially when the deceased are believed to come from vulnerable populations. Through a review of unidentified decedents in domestic casework (Bird 2015), it is gravely apparent that persons who die in the United States and remain nameless in death frequently come from the most marginalized groups in society. This includes those whose legal standing is in question, those with lower socioeconomic status, those who lack a cohesive group affiliation, and those with transient or semi-transient lifestyles. These individuals frequently lack representation and the socioeconomic capital to advocate on their behalf and are frequently stigmatized in society.
This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a pos... more This case study presents an unusual manifestation of gunshot trauma in skeletal tissue from a post-World War II human rights abuse sample uncovered in Vilnius, Lithuania. After briefly reviewing the typical wound appearance of projectile trauma in the cranium, we discuss the presence of an intact bone plug associated with a gunshot exit wound in an individual from the Tuskulenai Case. While this individual demonstrated typical gunshot entry and exit wounds to the cranium consistent with high-velocity trauma, the bone plug indicates that the projectile likely lost much of its kinetic energy while traveling through the cranium resulting in a low-velocity impact at the exit site. This study reviews a similar instance of a bone plug recovered from a bioarcheological sample in Peru and emphasizes the importance of thorough archeological excavations of mass graves.
Lithic artifacts represent the most abundant cultural remains from Middle Stone Age sites in sout... more Lithic artifacts represent the most abundant cultural remains from Middle Stone Age sites in southern Africa. Of these, pointed forms (under a variety of names), blades, and flakes have long been recognized as the three most abundant general types, and retouch on all three is rare relative to similar forms of equivalent age elsewhere. Here we offer a new technique for documenting concentrations of edge damage on an assemblage level to infer taphonomic processes and to record usewear and retouch. This approach is specifically aimed at patterning on the assemblage scale, rather than on individual artifacts. We use points from a Middle Stone Age assemblage from Pinnacle Point Cave 13B, near Mossel Bay, South Africa, to illustrate the technique. Combining GIS, rose diagrams, and polar statistics, we were able to visually and statistically summarize lithic artifacts for patterns of edge damage. For the points made on quartzite in this assemblage, edge damage was found to be significantly patterned and taphonomic causes of the damage were rejected. The technique also opens avenues for many other quantitative analyses that are either impossible or difficult with current non-visual systems of recording, such as measurements of distance, angle, and area of edge damage.
Podium presentation at the 69th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 69th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in New Orleans, Louisiana (2017)- Anthropology Section (A-114)
Podium presentation at the 2nd Disasters, Displacement and Human Rights Conference in Knoxville, ... more Podium presentation at the 2nd Disasters, Displacement and Human Rights Conference in Knoxville, Tennessee (2015)
Podium presentation at the 67th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 67th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Orlando, Florida (2015)- Anthropology Section (A-132)
Podium presentation at the 66th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 66th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Seattle, Washington (2014)- Physical Anthropology Section (H-31)
Podium presentation at the 82nd Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropolo... more Podium presentation at the 82nd Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Knoxville, Tennessee (2013)
Podium presentation at the 65th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sci... more Podium presentation at the 65th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Washington, DC (2013)- Physical Anthropology Section (H-55)
The concept of mentorship originated in ancient Greek mythology and referred to a relationship be... more The concept of mentorship originated in ancient Greek mythology and referred to a relationship between a knowledgeable person (mentor) and a less-experienced person (protégé). Today, mentorship can be conceptualized as the informal transmission of knowledge over a sustained period of time and in a domain in which the mentor and protégé have unequal knowledge. Traditionally, mentors are seen as older, wiser advisors who provide counsel to younger, less-experienced individuals in their professional or social sphere. Certainly, the role of this high-level mentor has been paramount in developing the field of forensic anthropology. However, anyone with greater knowledge in a specific domain who exerts a positive influence on another individual’s professional or social development can be considered a mentor – regardless of age or experience. This presentation contends that peer-to-peer interactions (e.g., leading by example, sharing diverse work experiences, dispensing advice) also qualify as important mentorship behaviors.
This research explores how the roles of mentors and protégés are perceived throughout the diverse academic and applied contexts of the field of forensic anthropology. All users of the AAFS Anthropology Section listserv received a link to an anonymous, IRB-approved Qualtrics.com survey. Instructions encouraged participants to share the survey link with other practitioners of varying skill and experience levels, including students and other non-members. Consenting participants answered 23 multiple-choice and 12 open-answer questions regarding their demographic information, opinions about mentorship, and experiences as both mentors and protégés.
A total of 96 professional forensic anthropologists and anthropology graduate students participated in the survey. The majority of respondents specialized in biological anthropology, had completed a PhD, and worked in the academic or medical-examiner setting. Most had been in the field for fewer than 21 years and were under the age of 45 years. The majority self-identified as being of female gender and European ancestry.
Respondents were nearly unanimous regarding the importance of mentorship in forensic anthropology, and many felt that being mentored directly contributed to their career success. Nearly all respondents had benefitted from the influence of multiple mentors, and many had also mentored multiple protégés. As expected, most respondents reported being mentored by a thesis/dissertation advisor. However, many respondents also reported peers as an important category of mentor (68%); and peers emerged as the most commonly reported category of protégé (75%). More respondents had received mentorship in career-related areas than they had in social interactions and social issues. Likewise, when asked in which areas they desired to provide and receive additional mentorship, more respondents selected these latter, social categories. Still, differences between distributions for mentorship provided/received and additional desired mentorship provided/received were not statistically significant (α=0.05; Wilcoxon rank-sum test; R). Further, the most commonly selected category for additional desired mentorship (both received and provided) was “none” – implying overall satisfaction with the mentorship experience.
This study indicates that the traditional mentorship paradigm is already shifting. In forensic anthropology, the mentorship paradigm does not solely consist of vertical-level interactions, but often includes horizontally oriented interactions. If our future reflects our past, then forensic anthropologists must honor the long-valued (and still valuable) role of the traditional mentor, while emphasizing the non-traditional mentorship behaviors that can enhance the careers and lives of both trainees and experienced practitioners.
Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropolo... more Poster presentation at the 85th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physical Anthropologists in Atlanta, Georgia (2016)
After attending this presentation, attendees will better understand how forensic anthropologists ... more After attending this presentation, attendees will better understand how forensic anthropologists currently perceive diversity and inclusion in the Anthropology Section. This presentation will impact forensic science by demonstrating the importance of diversity and inclusion, and how it can benefit the forensic anthropology community. Additionally, this presentation will outline the development of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee within the Anthropology Section, as well as its primary objectives, survey results, and proposals of how individuals and institutions can increase diversity at multiple levels within applied and academic contexts. Diversity and inclusion has proven to be an asset for individual and group performance, growth, development, and success in business and academia through principles of flexibility, equifinality, and respect for differences. Research demonstrates that diverse communities or workforces result in sustained competitive advantages through increased innovation and creativity. In 2017, the President of the AAFS Anthropology Section created an ad hoc committee to critically explore the current state of diversity within forensic anthropology. In 2018, this ad hoc committee was enthusiastically changed to a permanent Diversity and Inclusion Committee by voting members (AAFS created a similar Diversity and Outreach Committee in 2015 to develop comprehensive strategies to support diversity and promote collaboration, professionalism, and integrity). Primary objectives of the Committee include assessing diversity-related concerns of the Section, promoting inclusiveness, acting as an advocate for underrepresented individuals in forensic science, and promoting diversity-related resources for all Section members. This venture importantly parallels committees formed by closely aligned professional organizations, including the American Association of Physical Anthropologists and the Society for American Archaeology, and thus has the advantage of observing how diversity and inclusion movements in similar organizations have successfully resulted in innovation, renewal, and growth. In order to evaluate the current state of diversity and inclusion in forensic anthropology, the Committee created and distributed an Institutional Review Board-approved survey to all members of the Anthropology Section (University of South Florida proposal #00032513). Of the 220 participants, ages range from 18-85+ years, with most being 25-44 years old (58.8%), who hold various degrees/certifications, including B.A./B.S. (13.3%), M.A./M.S. (26.1%), Ph.D. (28.0%), M.D./Ph.D. (12.8%), and Ph.D./Diplomate status in the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (19.9%). Of the respondents, only 30.9% self-identify as a member of an underrepresented group, including African American, Native American, Asian, Hispanic/Latinx, LGBTQ+, and/or disabled. Heterogeneity is believed to be the greatest at the undergraduate level, with diversity decreasing in vertical movement through graduate, postdoctoral, and/or professional statuses. Overall, the majority (63.9%) of respondents believe that forensic anthropology exhibits little diversity; this lack of diversity is considered problematic to 73.4% of respondents, while 84.3% believe the Section should do more to recruit and maintain diverse forensic anthropologists. While 90.6% of respondents feel accepted within the Anthropology section, discrimination is an issue: 24.0% of respondents have experienced discrimination, while 46.3% have witnessed discrimination in the Section. Issues of discrimination, disrespect, and exclusion can have a particularly negative effect on our community, as it can lead to attrition of those with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Furthermore, these figures are especially worrisome since 59.9% of respondents do not know how to report incidents of discrimination within the Section. Similar to comparable endeavors in other scientific and non-scientific contexts, we contend that diversifying forensic anthropology through outreach and inclusion of persons with unique backgrounds and life experiences will ultimately benefit our science. While we recognize a strong tradition of scientific integrity in forensic anthropology, our community’s homogeneity, exclusivity, and competitive nature may make us blind to assumptions in our scientific interpretations. We believe diversity and inclusion in research and practice permits greater innovation, and the propensity to critically examine our assumptions, particularly as they relate to the complex and dynamic populations that we serve. This study demonstrates that our scientific community faces two major hurdles in this venture: recruitment and retention of diverse members. Through thoughtful and concerted efforts to value diversity during graduate school selection and hiring processes, to support mentorship programs, and to foster an environment of respect and acceptance in our Section, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee believes forensic anthropology can greatly improve and serve as a successful model within the forensic sciences.
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come from the most marginalized groups in society. This includes those whose legal standing is in question, those with lower socioeconomic status, those who lack a cohesive group affiliation, and those with transient or semi-transient lifestyles. These individuals frequently lack representation and the socioeconomic capital to advocate on their behalf and are frequently stigmatized in society.
This research explores how the roles of mentors and protégés are perceived throughout the diverse academic and applied contexts of the field of forensic anthropology. All users of the AAFS Anthropology Section listserv received a link to an anonymous, IRB-approved Qualtrics.com survey. Instructions encouraged participants to share the survey link with other practitioners of varying skill and experience levels, including students and other non-members. Consenting participants answered 23 multiple-choice and 12 open-answer questions regarding their demographic information, opinions about mentorship, and experiences as both mentors and protégés.
A total of 96 professional forensic anthropologists and anthropology graduate students participated in the survey. The majority of respondents specialized in biological anthropology, had completed a PhD, and worked in the academic or medical-examiner setting. Most had been in the field for fewer than 21 years and were under the age of 45 years. The majority self-identified as being of female gender and European ancestry.
Respondents were nearly unanimous regarding the importance of mentorship in forensic anthropology, and many felt that being mentored directly contributed to their career success. Nearly all respondents had benefitted from the influence of multiple mentors, and many had also mentored multiple protégés. As expected, most respondents reported being mentored by a thesis/dissertation advisor. However, many respondents also reported peers as an important category of mentor (68%); and peers emerged as the most commonly reported category of protégé (75%). More respondents had received mentorship in career-related areas than they had in social interactions and social issues. Likewise, when asked in which areas they desired to provide and receive additional mentorship, more respondents selected these latter, social categories. Still, differences between distributions for mentorship provided/received and additional desired mentorship provided/received were not statistically significant (α=0.05; Wilcoxon rank-sum test; R). Further, the most commonly selected category for additional desired mentorship (both received and provided) was “none” – implying overall satisfaction with the mentorship experience.
This study indicates that the traditional mentorship paradigm is already shifting. In forensic anthropology, the mentorship paradigm does not solely consist of vertical-level interactions, but often includes horizontally oriented interactions. If our future reflects our past, then forensic anthropologists must honor the long-valued (and still valuable) role of the traditional mentor, while emphasizing the non-traditional mentorship behaviors that can enhance the careers and lives of both trainees and experienced practitioners.
come from the most marginalized groups in society. This includes those whose legal standing is in question, those with lower socioeconomic status, those who lack a cohesive group affiliation, and those with transient or semi-transient lifestyles. These individuals frequently lack representation and the socioeconomic capital to advocate on their behalf and are frequently stigmatized in society.
This research explores how the roles of mentors and protégés are perceived throughout the diverse academic and applied contexts of the field of forensic anthropology. All users of the AAFS Anthropology Section listserv received a link to an anonymous, IRB-approved Qualtrics.com survey. Instructions encouraged participants to share the survey link with other practitioners of varying skill and experience levels, including students and other non-members. Consenting participants answered 23 multiple-choice and 12 open-answer questions regarding their demographic information, opinions about mentorship, and experiences as both mentors and protégés.
A total of 96 professional forensic anthropologists and anthropology graduate students participated in the survey. The majority of respondents specialized in biological anthropology, had completed a PhD, and worked in the academic or medical-examiner setting. Most had been in the field for fewer than 21 years and were under the age of 45 years. The majority self-identified as being of female gender and European ancestry.
Respondents were nearly unanimous regarding the importance of mentorship in forensic anthropology, and many felt that being mentored directly contributed to their career success. Nearly all respondents had benefitted from the influence of multiple mentors, and many had also mentored multiple protégés. As expected, most respondents reported being mentored by a thesis/dissertation advisor. However, many respondents also reported peers as an important category of mentor (68%); and peers emerged as the most commonly reported category of protégé (75%). More respondents had received mentorship in career-related areas than they had in social interactions and social issues. Likewise, when asked in which areas they desired to provide and receive additional mentorship, more respondents selected these latter, social categories. Still, differences between distributions for mentorship provided/received and additional desired mentorship provided/received were not statistically significant (α=0.05; Wilcoxon rank-sum test; R). Further, the most commonly selected category for additional desired mentorship (both received and provided) was “none” – implying overall satisfaction with the mentorship experience.
This study indicates that the traditional mentorship paradigm is already shifting. In forensic anthropology, the mentorship paradigm does not solely consist of vertical-level interactions, but often includes horizontally oriented interactions. If our future reflects our past, then forensic anthropologists must honor the long-valued (and still valuable) role of the traditional mentor, while emphasizing the non-traditional mentorship behaviors that can enhance the careers and lives of both trainees and experienced practitioners.
This presentation will impact forensic science by demonstrating the importance of diversity and inclusion, and how it can benefit the forensic anthropology community. Additionally, this presentation will outline the development of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee within the Anthropology Section, as well as its primary objectives, survey results, and proposals of how individuals and institutions can increase diversity at multiple levels within applied and academic contexts.
Diversity and inclusion has proven to be an asset for individual and group performance, growth, development, and success in business and academia through principles of flexibility, equifinality, and respect for differences. Research demonstrates that diverse communities or workforces result in sustained competitive advantages through increased innovation and creativity. In 2017, the President of the AAFS Anthropology Section created an ad hoc committee to critically explore the current state of diversity within forensic anthropology. In 2018, this ad hoc committee was enthusiastically changed to a permanent Diversity and Inclusion Committee by voting members (AAFS created a similar Diversity and Outreach Committee in 2015 to develop comprehensive strategies to support diversity and promote collaboration, professionalism, and integrity). Primary objectives of the Committee include assessing diversity-related concerns of the Section, promoting inclusiveness, acting as an advocate for underrepresented individuals in forensic science, and promoting diversity-related resources for all Section members. This venture importantly parallels committees formed by closely aligned professional organizations, including the American Association of Physical Anthropologists and the Society for American Archaeology, and thus has the advantage of observing how diversity and inclusion movements in similar organizations have successfully resulted in innovation, renewal, and growth.
In order to evaluate the current state of diversity and inclusion in forensic anthropology, the Committee created and distributed an Institutional Review Board-approved survey to all members of the Anthropology Section (University of South Florida proposal #00032513). Of the 220 participants, ages range from 18-85+ years, with most being 25-44 years old (58.8%), who hold various degrees/certifications, including B.A./B.S. (13.3%), M.A./M.S. (26.1%), Ph.D. (28.0%), M.D./Ph.D. (12.8%), and Ph.D./Diplomate status in the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (19.9%). Of the respondents, only 30.9% self-identify as a member of an underrepresented group, including African American, Native American, Asian, Hispanic/Latinx, LGBTQ+, and/or disabled. Heterogeneity is believed to be the greatest at the undergraduate level, with diversity decreasing in vertical movement through graduate, postdoctoral, and/or professional statuses. Overall, the majority (63.9%) of respondents believe that forensic anthropology exhibits little diversity; this lack of diversity is considered problematic to 73.4% of respondents, while 84.3% believe the Section should do more to recruit and maintain diverse forensic anthropologists.
While 90.6% of respondents feel accepted within the Anthropology section, discrimination is an issue: 24.0% of respondents have experienced discrimination, while 46.3% have witnessed discrimination in the Section. Issues of discrimination, disrespect, and exclusion can have a particularly negative effect on our community, as it can lead to attrition of those with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Furthermore, these figures are especially worrisome since 59.9% of respondents do not know how to report incidents of discrimination within the Section.
Similar to comparable endeavors in other scientific and non-scientific contexts, we contend that diversifying forensic anthropology through outreach and inclusion of persons with unique backgrounds and life experiences will ultimately benefit our science. While we recognize a strong tradition of scientific integrity in forensic anthropology, our community’s homogeneity, exclusivity, and competitive nature may make us blind to assumptions in our scientific interpretations. We believe diversity and inclusion in research and practice permits greater innovation, and the propensity to critically examine our assumptions, particularly as they relate to the complex and dynamic populations that we serve. This study demonstrates that our scientific community faces two major hurdles in this venture: recruitment and retention of diverse members. Through thoughtful and concerted efforts to value diversity during graduate school selection and hiring processes, to support mentorship programs, and to foster an environment of respect and acceptance in our Section, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee believes forensic anthropology can greatly improve and serve as a successful model within the forensic sciences.