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IU McKinney Master of Jurisprudence student Janae Garner-Kelley’s work on suicide and crisis call lines made her realize she wanted a position where she could lead and implement preventative measures. She’s working toward an M.J. degree so she’ll be ready to do precisely that.

Where are you from originally? Where did you do your undergraduate and/or graduate studies?

I am originally from Detroit, Michigan. I received my B.A. from the University of Michigan - Dearborn in 2020.

What are you doing now?

I am currently an Outreach Specialist at Alliance for Substance Abuse Progress (ASAP) in Columbus, Indiana, focusing on education and prevention within substance use and suicide.

What drew you to this field? What do you like most about your job?

I have had many jobs involving crisis intervention, case management, and coordination of services. I found myself in this field after needing these services myself many years ago. I enjoy the connections and emotions that happen most often here, and I want to share these skills and resources with others so they can experience those too. Many forget that the best thing about life is connection and the chance to be accepted with and for your vulnerabilities, not in spite of them.

What prompted you to pursue a Master of Jurisprudence degree at IU McKinney?

In my days of working suicide and crisis lines, I noticed a pattern of food insecurity, homelessness, unemployment, and other preventable crises in the stories of callers. As someone who originally wanted to be a therapist, I knew that my scope of work would not include supporting someone with all of that. I wanted a position that allowed me to advocate on legislative floors or lead and implement preventative and responsive crisis measures locally, nationally, and globally, so here I am!

How have you been able to tailor your studies to your career interests?

Thankfully, we have classes like Public Health and the Law, International Law, which I took in summer 2024, and others that focus on human rights and efforts to obtain and secure livelihood, which is all I care about. I will continue to engage in courses that focus on policy change and health in the community. I am also interested in a graduate certificate for homeland security and emergency management through the O'Neill Public Affairs school, which will integrate nicely into my studies.

What's your experience been like as a student at IU McKinney?

I've been loving it so far! I am part-time evening, so it limits my courses a bit, but I love the connections I'm making and the courses I've been able to take. I am excited for my future here!