School of Arts and Sciences

Tracey Horton Ph.D.

Professor of Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice

Biography:

Dr, Tracey Horton is a forensic psychologist who worked in the criminal justice system of North Carolina for fifteen years. She has treated and evaluated offenders in both community corrections and correctional institutions, investigated defendants facing felony charges, and prepared sentencing recommendations for the court, and assisted with mitigation investigations on defendants in capital murder trials. Dr. Horton has administered the forensic psychology program at Thomas College since 2010 and teaches classes in psychology, criminal behavior, and criminal justice.

Areas of Expertise:

Racial disparity in sentencing, mental health and criminal behavior, substance abuse and criminal behavior, psychological disorders.

Degrees:

  • Ph.D. in Human Services/ Criminal Justice Specialization from Walden University, Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • MA in Clinical Psychology from Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, North Carolina
  • BS in Psychology from Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina

Dissertation

“Racial Disparity in Felony Sentencing in North Carolina Following the Structured Sentencing Act”

Committee Involvement:

  • Current: Student Affairs Committee
    • Previous Committee Service: Library Committee Faculty Affairs Committee Professional Development Committee

    Campus Involvement:

      • Alpha Chi Honor Society, Faculty Advisor (2012-2023)
      • Restorative Practices Advisory Group (2022-present)

      Community Involvement:

        • Appointed member (2015-2022) of Maine’s Juvenile Justice Advisory Group – advises state policymakers, distributes funds to grantees, and promotes effective system-level responses in Maine’s juvenile justice system

        Contact Info

        AD-214