News Summary

Destiny Opotzner, a recent Lander University graduate, is making strides in criminology as she pursues a Master’s in Forensic Science. She created the university’s first True Crime Club and now works as a forensic evidence technician in Greenville, SC. Opotzner’s hands-on experience prepares her for her aspirations to work in a coroner’s office and the FBI, reflecting the growth of women in forensic careers and the impact of media on public perception of the criminal justice system.

Greenville, SC: Lander University Grad Destiny Opotzner Advances in Criminology Field

Destiny Opotzner, a recent graduate of Lander University, is making significant strides in the field of criminology as she pursues a Master of Science in Forensic Science. Opotzner, who majored in forensic chemistry and graduated in 2024, is dedicated to a career in criminology and public safety.

Her journey began with the creation of Lander University’s first True Crime Club, which brought together students interested in criminal investigation and forensic science. Her academic excellence at Lander has paved the way for her current role as a forensic evidence technician with the Greenville Department of Public Safety.

In her position, Opotzner is actively involved in collecting fingerprints, DNA samples, and analyzing crime scenes, performing tasks similar to those seen in popular crime shows like CSI and NCIS. Her hands-on experience is critical as she prepares to take her career to the next level by starting a Master’s program with Lander’s College of Graduate and Online Studies.

Opotzner’s current work extends to a detention center in Greenville, where she describes the experience as humbling and enlightening. She emphasizes how this role has contributed to her professional growth and understanding of the criminal justice system. In addition, she will begin training at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy in October to earn certification, enhancing her qualifications for future career opportunities.

Looking ahead, Opotzner aspires to work in a coroner’s office with the ultimate goal of joining the FBI. She recognizes the increasing demand for women in criminology and forensic science careers, as indicated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Opotzner notes that more women are entering the forensics field, contributing to empowerment within the profession.

For more information on Lander University’s Master of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice, individuals can visit the program’s official page. As rain showers are expected in the morning with scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon, locals may want to prepare for a high of 78°F and a low of 66°F, with winds being light and variable.

Background on Destiny Opotzner’s Education and Career

Throughout her academic career at Lander University, Opotzner consistently highlighted the importance of a supportive educational environment. She attributes her success to the guidance and expertise of her professors, which fostered a love for learning in the field of forensic science.

Opotzner’s research during her postgraduate studies will focus on how true crime media programming influences forensic science, highlighting an intersection between media and public perception within the criminal justice system. Her commitment to the field underscores a growing trend toward diversity and increased female representation in forensic careers.

Future Prospects in Criminology and Forensic Science

With a clear vision for her future, Opotzner stands at the forefront of a dynamic and evolving field within criminology. As women continue to break barriers in such male-dominated careers, her story exemplifies both personal achievement and a broader cultural shift toward inclusivity in the forensic sciences.

Weather Report for Greenville, SC

• Rain showers expected in the morning
• Scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon
• High of 78°F and low of 66°F
• 50% chance of rain in the morning, increasing to 60% in the evening

Contact Information

For additional information on Lander’s M.S. in Criminology and Criminal Justice, visit www.lander.edu/ms-cj.

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• Forensic Magazine: Forensic Researchers Call for Proactive Efforts to Address Racism in Science
• GoLaurens: Destiny Opotzner True Crime Club
• Wikipedia: Forensic Science
• Google Search: Criminology
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• Encyclopedia Britannica: Criminology
• Google News: Forensic Science

Author: HERE Greenwood

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