University of Kentucky College of Social Work Welcomes Megan Trafford 

Global scholar Megan Trafford brings her research and expertise in criminal justice to the UK College of Social Work as a Lecturer.
Welcome graphic for Dr. Megan Trafford with Megan Trafford headshot 

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LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is pleased to welcome Megan Trafford, MS, as a Lecturer. 

Originally from New York, Trafford most recently lived in Connecticut while pursuing her academic and professional career in criminal justice. She taught introductory statistics for the criminal justice profession at the University of New Haven, where she also served as a teaching assistant for multiple courses including Victims and Victimization, Criminology, and Criminal Legal System Injustices.  

Notably, Trafford led an international research project in which she redesigned a survey measuring patterns of deception in intimate relationships—including misrepresentation or non-disclosure of important personal information—which has since been disseminated in England, Scotland, and The Netherlands, with plans for future cross-national comparisons. 

Trafford earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the State University of New York at Oneonta in 2019, before completing a master’s degree in criminal justice at the University of New Haven in 2022. She also holds graduate certificates in forensic psychology, and victim advocacy and service management. Currently, Trafford is completing her PhD in criminal justice at the University of New Haven.  

In addition to her academic training, Trafford has completed C-SSRS training through the Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, Inc. 

“Megan’s expertise in criminal justice, victimization, and human rights brings an important dimension to our College,” said Jackie Duron, PhD, Associate Dean of Faculty Advancement. “We are excited for the perspective she brings to both her research and her teaching, and the impact she will have on our students and the broader community.” 

Outside of her academic and professional work, Trafford enjoys reading memoirs, traveling, and exploring the outdoors. On a recent trip to Montana, she flew a plane through Glacier National Park and kayaked across Lake McDonald. 


You can connect with Megan on LinkedIn

For over 85 years, the College of Social Work (CoSW) at the University of Kentucky has been a leader in education. Our mission is clear: Through rigorous research, excellence in instruction, and steadfast service, the CoSW works to improve the human condition. Always, in all ways.

As the state’s flagship university, our mission is actualized through our deeds. Our faculty are renowned academicians dedicated to fostering the development of high-quality practitioners and researchers. As a college, we promote community and individual well-being through translational research and scholarship, exemplary teaching, and vital community engagement. We are committed to the people and social institutions throughout Kentucky, the nation, and the world.