We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Ralph Serin, a cherished colleague, mentor, and friend, who left us on November 7, 2023, after a brave battle with cancer. Born in Lancashire, England, and raised in Canada, Ralph’s life was marked by a profound dedication to his family, friends, and his career in corrections and parole.
Ralph’s journey at Carleton University was nothing short of remarkable. As a professor and the Director of the Criminal Justice Decision Making Laboratory, he was known for his rigorous academic standards and passionate mentorship. Ralph’s commitment to research and evidence-based practices in parole and probation decision-making significantly advanced the field. His contributions were immense, securing substantial funding for the university and publishing over 160 articles, reports, and books that impacted both scholarly and applied audiences worldwide.
Beyond his academic achievements, Ralph’s impact on people was profound. He mentored over 80 students, many of whom became lifelong collaborators and friends. His work at the Brockville Jail as a psychologist and his advisory roles in various correctional agencies reflected his belief in rehabilitation and public safety.
The Association of Paroling Authorities International and National Institute of Corrections recently honored Ralph with a lifetime achievement award, a testament to his dedication and expertise. His legacy lives on through his groundbreaking work, including the DRAOR and the Structured Decision-Making Framework, now implemented globally.
Ralph’s loss is deeply felt by his family, friends, colleagues, and students. He will be remembered for his professional accomplishments as well as his kindness, humour, and unwavering support for those around him. In memory of Ralph, donations can be made to the CHEO Foundation or a local youth hockey team.
Finally, Ralph’s colleagues in the United States put together a kudo board for people to share fond memories and pictures of Ralph to celebrate his life and accomplishments. The kudo board will be shared with the family after Dec 1, 2023.