Justice Forward
Reimagining justice for safer communities
Every community deserves to feel safe, supported and empowered to thrive. Yet across the United States, the criminal justice system faces growing challenges that affect not only individuals directly involved in the system, but also families, neighborhoods and entire communities.
Arizona State University believes there is a better path forward. Through Justice Forward, ASU is bringing together researchers, practitioners, policymakers and community members to rethink how we define and create public safety. By addressing the root causes of inequitable outcomes, strengthening trust in institutions and advancing evidence-based solutions, we can build a future where safety and justice work hand in hand.
Led by the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, Justice Forward is creating practical solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities and help shape a more effective, equitable criminal justice system. Through Changing Futures, we are working to create safer communities in Arizona, across the West and throughout the nation.
See justice in action
Across laboratories, classrooms, clinics and communities, ASU is advancing groundbreaking solutions that improve lives. Discover how researchers, students and clinical partners are driving innovation in health care, expanding access to services and developing new technologies that help people live healthier lives.
Building a safer future together
Creating meaningful change requires more than isolated programs or policy reforms. It requires collaboration, innovation and a willingness to bring diverse perspectives together around a shared goal: safer, healthier communities for all.
At the heart of this work is the ASU Center for Safe Communities, which is advancing research, education, workforce development and policy solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges facing public safety today. From reducing recidivism and supporting people transitioning from incarceration to strengthening public safety leadership and developing regionally informed solutions, the center is helping communities move beyond reactive approaches toward long-term, sustainable change.
Justice Forward also recognizes that rural, border and Indigenous communities across the West face unique challenges and opportunities. Through initiatives like the Western Alliance for Justice and the Future Leaders Network, ASU is developing solutions informed by local realities while creating models that can scale nationally.
Together, we can create a justice system that promotes well-being, strengthens trust and improves outcomes for everyone it touches.
“ASU is uniquely positioned to lead in creating a safer, fairer future — through research, innovation and hands-on learning that bridges classrooms and communities.”
Beth Huebner
Director, School of Criminology and Criminal Justice and Watts Endowed Professor of Public Safety
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Join us in moving justice forward
The future of public safety depends on bold ideas, collaborative leadership and a commitment to creating systems that serve everyone. Your support helps ASU advance evidence-based research, develop future public safety leaders and expand programs that strengthen communities and improve outcomes throughout the justice system.
Together, we can create safer neighborhoods, healthier communities and a more just future for generations to come. By investing in Justice Forward, you help transform knowledge into action and support solutions that can create lasting impact across Arizona, the West and beyond.