Where Forensics Meets the Wild: Clayton State’s Laker Wildlife Initiative Summit Equips Leaders to Combat Wildlife Crime and Advance Conservation
(September 17, 2025) - Clayton State University’s Laker Wildlife Initiative Summit brings together leading experts, professionals, and students for a hands-on, multidisciplinary training event focused on wildlife crime investigation and conservation.
In partnership with the internationally renowned Wildlife Forensic Academy, the summit will feature collaborative workshops and training led by Academy faculty, providing participants with direct access to cutting-edge forensic techniques and global conservation expertise.
“We are so excited to bring to the campus of Clayton State University our partners in wildlife conservation the Wildlife Forensic Academy (WFA) to provide instruction on the latest wildlife forensic techniques,” said Dr. Andrea Allen, Professor of Criminal Justice & Co-lead of the Laker Wildlife Initiative. “In addition, we plan to send Clayton State students to their facility in Africa in 2026 to make this a truly global partnership.”
Over two days, attendees will explore strategies to protect biodiversity, confront illegal wildlife trade, and advance public health and legal justice—cementing Clayton State’s leadership in innovative, community-engaged conservation education.
“The Laker Wildlife Initiative brings together faculty, students, and global community partners to explore the intersection of science, law, and conservation,” said Dr. Joshua Meddaugh, Professor of Political Science & Co-lead of the Laker Wildlife Initiative. “Whether you are interested in innovative research, hands-on learning, or collaborative service projects, we invite you to join us in making a meaningful impact on wildlife and environmental stewardship.”
To cap off this inspiring summit, Clayton State University is thrilled to announce the inaugural Laker Wildlife Initiative Cocktail Gala, taking place on Friday, September 19 from 7–11 p.m. at the Harry S. Downs Atrium. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening of dining, dancing, themed cocktails, and philanthropy, all dedicated to advancing the mission of wildlife forensics and global conservation. Proceeds from the gala directly support Clayton State students traveling to the Wildlife Forensic Academy in South Africa, enabling hands-on forensic training and international collaboration to combat wildlife crime and protect endangered species.
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About The Wildlife Forensic Academy
The Laker Wildlife Initiative was established to meet the growing demand for professionals and community members equipped to address the complex challenges of wildlife crime and environmental threats. As crimes involving wildlife and natural resources become increasingly sophisticated, there is a critical need for individuals and organizations who can bridge scientific investigation, criminal justice, environmental science, and public policy on a global scale.
Wildlife crime is estimated to cost the world economy between $1 and $2 trillion each year, underscoring the urgent need for innovative solutions and highly trained experts. By fostering interdisciplinary training and research, the Initiative empowers students, professionals, and communities to respond effectively to emerging issues in conservation, law enforcement, and environmental stewardship—ensuring that individuals and local partners are equipped to make a meaningful impact both locally and globally.
The Laker Wildlife Initiative is a division within the College of Arts & Sciences at Clayton State University, co-led by Dr. Joshua Meddaugh and Dr. Andrea Allen. Learn more about the Laker Wildlife Initiative.
About The Wildlife Forensic Academy
The Wildlife Forensic Academy (WFA) is located just over an hours’ drive outside beautiful Cape Town, South Africa. In the middle of Buffelsfontein, a private wildlife reserve, lies our 800m2 state-of-the-art forensic training experience lab. WFA trains individuals in Forensic Science and Methodical Evidence Reporting so that no wildlife criminal will slip through the net. Learn more about The Wildlife Forensic Academy.