Dr. Ravon Alford

Dr. Alford began her academic training at the University of Michigan, earning a BA in psychology with a minor in crime and justice. She went on to complete an MS in criminal justice at Michigan State University, along with a certificate in law enforcement intelligence and analysis. Her research journey started early as a sophomore research assistant at the University of Michigan, where she recruited participants, proctored studies, transcribed and analyzed data, and presented findings—an experience that sparked her passion for practitioner-focused, evidence-based work. Dr. Alford served as a research mentor at both the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. As a PhD candidate, she was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi and Alpha Phi Sigma.

Professionally, Dr. Alford has worked across academic, governmental, and nonprofit sectors addressing reentry, homelessness, and mental health. She has contributed to national reentry initiatives and currently works within the State of Michigan, collaborating with the Attorney General’s Office, Governor’s Office, clinical professionals, and agency leadership to inform decisions that impact justice-impacted populations. She is now a quantitative researcher with several years of experience working with large datasets, transforming complex data into clear, accessible insights for academic, policy, and practitioner audiences.

Dr. Alford’s expertise has been showcased through poster presentations, national briefings, and conference facilitation and moderation. She is experienced in translating complex research into practical guidance and engaging diverse audiences in meaningful dialogue on policy and systems change. In addition to her professional work, Dr. Alford remains closely connected to the communities most impacted by the justice system. She has volunteered as a pen pal to individuals incarcerated across the country and has provided in-person social support to individuals in federal prison who lacked regular visitors, recognizing the critical role that connection plays in successful reintegration.

With five years of mentorship experience, Dr. Alford approaches each session with compassion, clarity, and structure. With a background that bridges research, policy, and systems-level decision-making, she is well-positioned to support mentees interested in law, public policy, and criminal justice. She is committed to helping mentees build strong analytical and writing skills while encouraging confidence, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of how their work can contribute to meaningful change.

Drawing from her own research experiences, Dr. Alford meets mentees where they are and creates a supportive environment that prioritizes growth over pressure. Her goal is not only to help students reach the finish line, but to ensure they do so with their confidence strengthened, their thinking sharpened, and their anxiety reduced. She supports mentees in refining research questions, organizing their ideas, and navigating complex or evolving topics, while helping them develop well-supported, compelling arguments.

A fun fact about Dr. Alford is that she met her mentor during her sophomore year while she was pursuing her PhD. Her mentor earned a PhD. and became a professor—Dr. Alford’s dissertation committee was the first one she participated in. Talk about a full circle moment!