Samantha McIntyre is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in sociology with a concentration in criminology. She received her B.A. in Communications and M.A. in Sociology here at UTK,  currently works as a graduate instructor for the Sociology department, teaching introductory and criminal justice courses. Her research looks at substance abuse recovery and harm reduction, and has also done some academic work surrounding green criminology. She is active in the Knoxville recovery community, has experience working and volunteering in rehabilitation centers, and serves as a peer mentor for Rocky Top Recovery.