AKeera Ford

Fulbright/University of Leicester Award

A native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, AKeera Ford recently earned a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in criminology and a B.A. in Black Studies, from Kennesaw State University. A long-standing interest in the criminal justice system guided her to an internship with her county’s District Attorney’s Office, which helped her gain clarity on a meaning professional pathway in victim advocacy. There, she supported victims of crime and saw the critical need for systems that center healing, support, and long-term recovery.

With the Fulbright, she is now pursuing a Master of Science in Crime, Justice, and Psychology to explore restorative justice principles and develop strategies that reduce recidivism and promote equitable outcomes. While in the UK, she hopes to deepen her understanding of coercive control, human trafficking, and the unique challenges faced by women and marginalized communities as victims of crime. Her long-term goal is to work in federal policy, contributing to the design of national frameworks that prioritize rehabilitation, victim advocacy, and trauma-informed reform across the justice system.

Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, she enjoys reading, singing, music, and exploring new experiences that bring joy and connection to everyday life.