Carpenter Library opens exhibit of work from Dr. Christine Rasche
The Thomas G. Carpenter Library is opening a new Special Collections exhibition highlighting the academic papers and contributions of Dr. Christine Rasche, a founding faculty member in the College of Arts and Sciences (COAS). The opening reception will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 22, in the Chamblin Room at the Carpenter Library.
“Christine was a trailblazer in many ways,” said Anne-Marie Campbell, UNF COAS development director. “She was a leader in women and crime research before anyone even considered it as a discipline.”
Dr. Christine Rasche arrived at UNF in 1972. Due to her gender, Dr. Rasche was denied access to male prisons during her Ph.D. research at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. She quickly pivoted to focus her career on incarcerated women, making her one of the field’s early trailblazers. Integral to UNF’s growth and development until her retirement in 2008, Dr. Rasche helped build and support some key programs including the Criminal Justice Program and Women’s Center.
Dr. Rasche worked to address the unique needs of female offenders through an impressive list of publications that includes academic articles and training curriculums for correctional departments in various states. She also helped found domestic violence center, Hubbard House, in 1977 and maintained seats on committees such as the Jacksonville Community Council, Inc. and the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on the Status of Women. Using her academic research, Dr. Rasche sought to aid UNF and the local Jacksonville community, often succeeding in her efforts.
Sincere thanks to Linda Oberdorfer for her contributions to the UNF History Fund which enabled graduate student assistance and archival supplies.
View the Dr. Christine Rasche Collection.