Dr. Kerensa P. Lockwood is Director of Research Implementation for the Institute of Justice Research and Development. In this position she ensures study and practice protocol are strictly adhered to for various research projects. Currently, IJRD is focused on researching and refining the reentry process through the 5 Key Model of reentry. This is a multi-state, randomized control trial that involves researchers and practitioners.      

Until July 2018, Lockwood worked with the Department of Corrections for almost 13 years as the Assistant Chief for the Bureau of Applied Science, Research and Policy. In this role Lockwood successfully procured over $4.3 million in grants focused on implementing prisoner reentry programs and assessing the effectiveness of various programs. There she focused on researching and implementing programs, obtaining grant funding for these initiatives, assessing the effectiveness of various programmatic practices, informing decisions and furthering the agencies mission while upholding evidence-driven principles.

Her passion to provide a coordinated, evidence-driven approach to correctional processes has been an asset to those she works with. Lockwood serves as a leader for reentry skill development and initiatives along with supplying leadership with continuous cutting edge research on various issues and potential programs that reduces the likelihood of recidivism.  Additionally, she acts as a conduit between community service providers, local reentry coalitions, universities, and national organizations to gather and inform the corrections field.

Lockwood is dedicated to the reentry philosophy and improving outcomes for inmates and offenders. She developed this interest while attending Florida State University, where she earned a doctorate from the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice in 2010.  Additionally, she holds a Masters degree in Developmental Psychology from Florida International University and a Masters degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Florida State University.