Dr. Alice Gooding Earns Prestigious Diplomate Certification

KENNESAW, Ga. (Apr 27, 2022) — The American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) awarded Kennesaw State University’s Dr.Alice Gooding its Diplomate certification, the highest level of certification in the field of forensic anthropology. Established in 1977 the ABFA has awarded only 163 Diplomate certifications, with Dr. Gooding being the 160th.

The AFBA states that, “A Diplomate of the American Board of Forensic Anthropology has attained certification demonstrating expertise in forensic anthropology. Diplomate status is conferred after obtaining a doctorate degree and successfully applying for and passing a rigorous examination that tests core forensic anthropological competencies. A Diplomate is qualified, vetted, adherent to a code of ethics, and demonstrates continued professional development to maintain certification.”

Dr. Gooding is the only AFBA certified Diplomate in the state of Georgia and serves as a consultant with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and multiple local agencies throughout the state. Dr. Teresa Raczek, Chair of the Department of Geography and Anthropology said, “Dr. Gooding is a dedicated professor and has built our forensic anthropology program from the ground up. We’re very proud of her accomplishments and glad to see that she is being recognized for her unique skill set.”

Forensic anthropologists are experts in human skeletal analysis and provide a vital service to communities in the search, recovery and identification of human remains. The application of their expertise provides vital information that informs the circumstances of the decedent’s death. Instances when a forensic anthropologist’s skills might be required include identifying remains from fires, natural disasters such as earthquakes, or criminal investigations. In addition to the technical and legal value of these skills, forensic anthropologists also bring closure for families in the midst of often difficult circumstances.

The RCHSS Department of Geography and Anthropology offers a course of study that includes Physical Anthropology courses and a lab in Forensic Anthropology that positions students well for careers in the field. “With a curriculum delivered by experts such as Dr. Gooding, we are able to actively engage students in hands-on exploration of scientific methods to prepare them with skills that are immediately relevant in today’s job market,” said Dean Kaukinen. “We are very proud of Dr. Gooding’s ABFA Diplomate designation and are delighted to have her as part of the Radow College family.”