The Macomb County Medical Examiner’s office recently hosted a group of approximately 20 9-11th grade students enrolled in CSI at the PSI (Public Service Institute), one of Macomb Community College’s nine summer career academies offering hands-on career exploration. The students met with staff at the Medical Examiner’s office on Wednesday, June 18 – the third day of the 3-day camp that started on June 16.
The class introduced participants to the science and techniques used in the investigation of crime scenes to help promote increased interest in forensics and law enforcement. The first two days of the camp focused on a variety of hands-on investigative scenarios (i.e. foot impressions, blood splatters, and hair sampling) that culminated in more comprehensive crime scene scenarios at the Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office on the third day of the camp.
“This camp is a fantastic way for youth to be exposed to real world learning that can help guide their continued exploration of potential career paths,” said Macomb County Executive, Mark Hackel. “We’re proud to host the day’s activities and to once again partner with Macomb Community College, giving young people a hands-on look at forensic science and public service. Our hope is that it inspires these students to explore all of the opportunities that are available to them and to continue their learning beyond high school.”
"I credit my staff for helping to develop and participate in this program. They really buy into it and their enthusiasm is obvious by the creativity of their presentations and their interactions with the students," said Dr. Mary Pietrangelo, Chief Medical Examiner at the Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office.
“This was our second CSI camp, and I couldn’t be more pleased to have had the opportunity to engage the students in hands-on exploration related to crime scene investigations,” said Macomb Community College Professor Samantha Bowlin who designed the curriculum and led participants through the 3-day camp. “This was great opportunity to introduce this subject matter at an early age and, hopefully, spark a desire to learn more about potential career options, if not more about CSI careers. It simply wouldn’t have been possible without the willingness and collaboration with the Macomb County Medical Examiner’s Office.”
“This class offers a truly unique learning opportunity to these students – there is nothing like this offered in conventional classrooms,” said Andrew Cox, Director/Health Officer of the Macomb County Department of Health and Community Services. “Congratulations to the Medical Examiner’s Office and the staff at Macomb Community College on bringing this class to life.”
Images from day three of the CSI camp can be found here.
