A U.S. Border Patrol Agent spoke to students in three class meetings in the Shields School of Business on Sept. 26, sharing stories about some of her experiences, as well as information about careers in law enforcement.
Agent Katie Griffith spoke to students in Sociology and Criminal Justice classes.
Griffith graduated from Alvernia University in Reading, Pennsylvania, with a degree in Criminal Justice. She has served as a Border Patrol Agent for nearly 19 years.
She became motivated to pursue this career path after the 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States.
“The events of 9/11 happened, and I knew I wanted to serve my country,” she said.
Griffith patrols the U.S.-Mexico border, often on horseback, and participates in search-and-rescue operations. She emphasized that the Border Patrol’s top priority is to ensure safety.
“We are trying to safeguard the American people,” she said.
A diverse group of students attended Griffith’s presentation, including Psychology, Criminal Justice and Social Work majors.
Faith Konieczka, a sophomore Psychology major, said that Griffith’s presentation improved her understanding of Border Patrol and the variety of career paths that it offers.
Konieczka also said that the presentation increased her appreciation of the work of law enforcement officers.
“I certainly have a new appreciation for people like her, in addition to everyone who works tirelessly to keep the United States safe,” she said.
Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice Mark Buckwalter invited Griffith to campus.
Buckwalter highlighted the need for diversity in law enforcement, noting that only six percent of Border Patrol agents are female.
Similarly, roughly 12 percent of total American law enforcement officers are female.
“We need women and people of diverse backgrounds,” said Buckwalter.
Griffith’s presentation offered insight into the work of Border Patrol agents and those in similar branches of law enforcement across the United States.
She will return to campus on Oct. 31 to participate in SFU’s First Responders Day.
