“Diversity gap persists on Schenectady Police Department.” 

Danielle Smith, professor of African American studies in the College of Arts and director of the Renée Crown University Honors Program, was interviewed for the Schenectady Daily Gazette story “Diversity gap persists on Schenectady Police Department.” The lack of diversity within the Schenectady police department has been highlighted in recent months after national focus on systemic racism, with many residents saying the department should “better represent the community it serves.” “The culture of police departments needs to be based on community policing and building relationships will benefit all members of the community, especially marginalized community members,” says Smith.