Allentown, PA (10/28/2025) — Cedar Crest College Unveils Expert Witness Training Center During Homecoming Weekend

On Saturday, October 25, Cedar Crest College hosted a ribbon cutting and unveiling of the new Joni Berner Esq '75 - Expert Witness Training Center & Crime Scene Laboratory during Homecoming Weekend. The innovative space comes as a result of a $608K grant through the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance, as well as a generous gift from alum Joni Berner '75-an accomplished attorney-and her husband Dr. Edwin Hemwall.

This groundbreaking initiative unites the essential elements of solving crimes and pursuing justice in one dynamic educational space. It significantly increases the College's capacity to train forensic science, law enforcement, first-responder professionals, and those who are often asked to provide testimony in court to become effective expert witnesses.

For Cedar Crest's students, the Center provides an invaluable advantage. By integrating practical, hands-on learning into their coursework, students gain early exposure to professional-level training environments and investigative processes, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to realistic simulations and trial investigations.

"The Expert Witness Training Center represents what Cedar Crest does best-combining rigorous academics with real-world experience," said President Elizabeth M. Meade. "This facility will further enhance the education of our students and strengthen our partnerships with the law enforcement and justice communities that serve our region."

The Center houses simulated crime scenes, scientific labs, and a mock courtroom to prepare experts in managing evidence through the judicial process. The Crime Scene Lab consists of three rooms modeled after a residential house-a living room, bedroom, and kitchen-where participants can examine realistic crime scenarios and practice hands-on investigative techniques. This immersive experience allows students to strengthen critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills, preparing them to enter the workforce with confidence and a competitive edge.

"This Center gives students and professionals the opportunity to learn in an environment that mirrors the realities of fieldwork," said Lawrence Quarino, Director of the Expert Witness Training Center and Crime Scene Laboratory. "It's a place where theory meets practice-where learners can strengthen their analytical skills, refine their courtroom testimony, and gain the confidence to make an impact in the pursuit of justice."

The space will host monthly trainings and workshops for forensic science and law enforcement professionals led by various field experts. All courses hosted through the Center will be free through August of 2026, beginning with the first session, Reconstructing Scenes Involving Bloodshed, on October 29.

The Joni Berner Esq '75 - Expert Witness Training Center & Crime Scene Laboratory opens new pathways for hands-on learning, professional development, and continuing education through workshops and collaborative training opportunities with local and state police departments. By connecting education, innovation, and community, the Center marks the next step in Cedar Crest's mission to equip future forensic leaders with the insight, integrity, and experience needed to advance justice in their communities.

Cedar Crest College has been empowering women to smash glass ceilings and achieve their educational goals since 1867. Today, the College continues to open the doors to opportunities for its diverse student body, both in the undergraduate women's college and in the co-ed School of Adult and Graduate Education. Located in Allentown, Pa., Cedar Crest is ranked by U.S. News & World Report's 2025-2026 Best College Rankings as #16 in Social Mobility and is among the top 100 colleges and universities in the region.