Long-time criminology instructor Tamara O'Doherty becomes full-time lecturer

Tamara O’Doherty, who has been teaching at the Department of Criminology since 2003, has become a full-time lecturer.

As a socio-legal scholar, her interests lie in the criminalization of marginalized groups, human rights and gender equity. She holds a BA in criminal justice from the University of the Fraser Valley, and went on to complete a JD from the University of British Columbia, as well as an MA and PhD from Simon Fraser University.

O’Doherty recently received her fifth Teaching and Learning Development Grant (TLDG), which examines graduates’ responses to criminology courses at SFU. Previous grants have focused on proper techniques for delivering sensitive course content, working with Indigenous students to respectfully included their experiences and developing a toolkit for criminology faculty and teaching assistants.

“Teaching and Learning Development grants are a crucial method of evaluating teaching practices,” says O’Doherty. “Not only does it address substantive issues but also develops a more holistic approach to teaching.”

In addition to teaching and academic publishing, O’Doherty has worked extensively in public education and community activism. Her work is inspired by both the university and public communities. She is motivated by the diversity and knowledge of her students, and feels both positively challenged and supported by her peers. She has also learned much from the social justice advocates and experienced individuals she meets in the community.

“It all comes back to people,” O’Doherty says. “I am deeply committed to social justice and to doing my part to resist inequities.”