Leading with Insight: Michael Rader’s Story of Growth at UWF and Beyond

June 9, 2025 | By River Fundock, Student Intern, Department of Communication | Edited by Karen Tibbals, CASSH Communications Coordinator

Michael Rader, a Captain with the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office, exemplifies the exceptional qualities fostered through UWF’s Criminal Justice program. Rader graduated with a dual Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Psychology in 2003. Over the next 19 years, he rose through the ranks in various specialized roles, including Patrol Deputy, Drug Task Force Investigator, and Special Investigations Section Sergeant.

In 2022, he returned to UWF to pursue a Master of Science in Criminal Justice (MSCJ), where he says the program allowed him to approach challenges with a more objective mindset. "The MSCJ program has helped me approach problems using this critical lens in efforts to improve my profession and help the next generation of law enforcement officers," Rader explains.

Dr. Matthew S. Crow, professor, UWF Department of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies, noted Rader’s valuable field experience, which Crow said contributed to the success of the Criminal Justice Theory course: "Michael was one of those students who helped make my class better. He combined his valuable experience in the field with intellectual curiosity, helping develop our thinking."

"The education I obtained at UWF helped me understand the different facets of the criminal justice system and the 'why' behind many policies and laws," Rader says. "UWF fosters critical thinking and helped me understand how certain conventions become unquestioned."

Several members of Rader’s family have served in law enforcement, which profoundly influenced his career path. He chose Criminal Justice as a major because he saw the importance of the work and the satisfaction his family members received from serving their communities. At UWF, Rader developed a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system and developed the ability to question long-established norms.

Rader’s academic journey at UWF was enhanced by professors who fostered his active engagement and reflective analysis. Dr. Natalie Goulette, professor, UWF Department of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies, who worked with Rader during the MSCJ program, praised him for his ability to apply course material to real-world scenarios. "Mike Rader was a phenomenal student in our MSCJ program." Dr. Goulette said. "Mike really met and exceeded all expectations throughout his time in the graduate program. I am so proud of his personal and professional growth."

Rader’s involvement in extracurricular activities further shaped his journey. As an undergraduate, he was an active member of Greek life and the Criminal Justice Honor Society. Through these organizations, he built valuable relationships with local professionals in law, which complemented his education and career aspirations. As a member of the Criminal Justice Honor Society, he was introduced to local professionals in the judiciary and law enforcement realm, which he credits with deepening his understanding of how our adversarial system works.

Rader’s capstone paper, supervised by Dr. Kathrine Johnson, associate professor, UWF Department of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies, showcased his exceptional analytical skills. "Mr. Rader exhibited a commendable openness to challenging established paradigms," Dr. Johnson shared. "His research was insightful, offering compelling justifications for his findings with discerning objectivity."

"Michael is an exceptional learner who enhances a class with his thoughtful contributions. He appreciates how research and pragmatic solutions enhance his profession and demonstrated outstanding leadership, often encouraging classmates to stretch their critical thinking skills." - Dr. William Crawley, professor, UWF Department of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies

Rader’s advice to current and prospective students of CASSH is impactful but straightforward: engage with all opportunities available. "Learning is not limited to the classroom (or computer screen)," he encourages. "Take advantage of the seminars, summits, and gatherings offered. Talk to those who are experts in the field, and you won’t be sorry."

Learn more about exciting careers available to graduates of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies programs at the University of West Florida here.