About me
Tarnisha Tilson is a public administration professional and educator with extensive experience in reentry, criminal justice, and security. She holds a Master of Public Administration, dual bachelor’s degrees in Criminology and Sociology, and an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice, each earned with high honors.
She teaches criminal justice at the high school level, delivering a curriculum aligned with Arizona’s Law and Public Safety CTE Standards. Her students study constitutional and criminal law, civil and criminal law, use-of-force standards, court processes from arrest to adjudication, criminal investigations, forensic science, community policing strategies, corrections systems, private security, and the roles of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Her courses emphasize communication, ethics, officer wellness, cultural awareness, and the impact of technology on public safety.
Tarnisha is also a dual-enrollment instructor for college-level Administration of Justice courses and works in security roles to support law enforcement operations. As an internship coordinator, she connects students with work-based learning opportunities, supports them throughout their placements, and helps them develop the professional skills and confidence needed for future career success.
Her professional journey includes co-founding a reentry coalition aimed at reducing recidivism and improving post-incarceration outcomes through policy advocacy and community partnerships. She also teaches financial literacy to women reentering society after incarceration, underscoring her commitment to education, empowerment, and second chances.
With her combined experience in teaching, security, public policy and community advocacy, Tarnisha brings valuable insight on reentry, public safety, and workforce development to the classroom and the wider community.
