Sarah Elizabeth Wellard

Sarah Elizabeth Wellard is a highly accomplished legal-psychology researcher, attorney, and passionate educator dedicated to the field of judgment and decision making within the legal realm. With an impressive academic background, Sarah holds a Bachelor's degree with Honors in Legal Studies from the University of Illinois at Springfield, where her passion for the intricacies of law first ignited. Continuing her educational journey, she earned her law degree from the University of Illinois College of Law in Urbana-Champaign, solidifying her expertise in the legal domain. Driven by a deep curiosity about the human mind and its interaction with the legal system, Sarah pursued a Masters of Arts in Forensic Psychology from Argosy University, further enhancing her understanding of the psychological intricacies inherent in legal matters. Her commitment to knowledge and academic excellence led her to earn her Ph.D. in Psychological Science at DePaul University, where she is actively conducting groundbreaking research in her field.

As a licensed attorney, Sarah seamlessly combines her legal acumen and psychological expertise, providing invaluable insights into the realm of legal psychology. Specializing in judgment and decision making in a legal context, Sarah possesses a unique ability to analyze complex legal situations through a psychological lens, offering innovative perspectives and contributing to the advancement of the field.

Beyond her scholarly pursuits, Sarah finds great joy in sharing her knowledge and experiences with others. Having taught as an adjunct professor at DePaul, she has instructed courses on Research Methods and Introductory Psychology, leaving a lasting impact on countless students. Sarah’s love for teaching and genuine passion for empowering others through education is evident in her engaging and interactive teaching style. Sarah was honoured to be nominated by her students for a Quality of Instruction Council (QIC) Excellence in Teaching Award.

Sarah has also demonstrated a commitment to social justice and advocacy through her involvement with the Downstate Illinois Innocence Project during her undergraduate years. Furthermore, she held the esteemed position of President of the Prisoners' Rights Research Project while in law school, coordinating legal research projects to protect the rights of those within the criminal justice system.

While her professional achievements are remarkable, Sarah maintains a well-rounded lifestyle. She actively engages in volunteer work, giving back to her community and making a positive impact on those around her. In her downtime, Sarah enjoys spending time with her friends and family (including her fantastic dog) and doing the New York Times crossword puzzle.

With a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of the legal system and a genuine passion for teaching and research, Sarah Elizabeth Wellard stands as a leading authority in the field of legal psychology. Through her expertise, she strives to bridge the gap between law and psychology, empowering individuals and shaping a more informed and just society.