Get to know a little about Sejung Yang, one of the core team members of the National Center on Restorative Justice!
What is your work at the National Center on Restorative Justice?
I am part of the research pillar, the Restorative Justice Research Community, at the NCORJ. As a postdoc researcher, I support key research initiatives and conduct research on RJ, particularly in relation to violence.
What has been the most rewarding experience you’ve had working in restorative justice so far?
My most rewarding experience has always been working as part of a team. For instance, I worked as a research assistant at the Center on Violence and Recovery, where I first learned about RJ as an alternative approach to addressing violence. I have also learned so much from each team member, both academically and personally. Also, I am now part of the Restorative Justice Research Community, where I work with amazing researchers, and I am truly grateful for this opportunity!
What do you think is the biggest misconception about restorative justice, and how do you address it in your work?
One of the biases is the belief that RJ can’t be used to address domestic violence for several reasons including victims’ safety issue. As a researcher, my work includes studying domestic violence & RJ to offer an enhanced understanding as to the ways in which RJ has been safely applied to address domestic violence.
How would you describe restorative justice in five words or less?
Paradigm shift to address harm
What is your favorite Circle or icebreaker question?
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When you’re not at work, what is something you like to do that brings you joy and fills your cup?
Hiking with my family rejuvenates me!
What is your favorite type of cuisine, and what is your go-to dish at a restaurant that serves it?
I love almost all kinds of authentic Korean street food. In particular, Tteokbokki is my go-to dish. It is chewy, sweet, and spicy!.
Sejung Yang is a Postdoctoral Researcher with the Restorative Justice Research Community at the University of Vermont. She is supporting the RJRC literature review and fellows projects and is working to advance a research portfolio on the intersection of restorative justice, social work, and violent crime. She hopes her research contributes to enhance the well-being of children, youth, and parents exposed to domestic violence. She has co-authored several peer-reviewed articles on child maltreatment and domestic violence in journals, including Child and Adolescent Social Work and Journal of Family violence. She holds a PhD from NYU’s Silver School of Social Work and an MSW from Yonsei University in South Korea.