Maurita Holmes currently serves as a Criminal Intelligence Analyst for the Chicago Police Department. She has a Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Chicago State University and holds a Masters in Geography and Economic Development. Maurita is also certified in Community Development. While studying to obtain her Masters in Geography, Maurita’s research interests where in cartography, systems integration, and use of geospatial technology for law enforcement and disaster response.
As a highly skilled Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Maurita has mastered a war bag of skills and technology. Maurita meticulously researches, compiles and analyze crime. With her excellent communication skills, Maurita translates her research into detailed-oriented briefings that is not only delivered to law enforcement staff but to a vast audience who often includes students pursuing careers in the Criminal Justice field.
Maurita has worked in law enforcement for more than 7 years, giving her the opportunity to gain in depth knowledge of her field. In addition to analyzing data and communicating the results of her research, Maurita utilizes her strong interpersonal skills when she conducts training sessions, teaches at a local university, prepares informational materials and when acting as a liaison for law enforcement organizations over the years.
This Chicago native was always inquisitive; therefore, her thirst for knowledge didn’t fall short of her earning a second master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Illinois. With this degree in hand she strived to become a nationally recognized voice on literacy and investor in education. She is actively involved with a variety of civic and professional institutions. Her community outreach includes her role as the President of Lyric Foundation, which serves at-risk youth and families in Chicago land communities. She is also a director of two mentorship and educational programs. In addition to her position as a Criminal Intelligence Analyst for CPD, Maurita is now earning her Doctorate in Educational Leadership (2019). Presently she is writing her Dissertation on the STEM crisis in America, researching female underrepresentation in STEM career fields.
Maurita is on a mission to put theory into practice and is currently working with a team of educators to open an all-girls STEAM academy in Chicago. Maurita says, “My life’s goal is to educate as many young people as possible so that they might lead a healthy and productive life outside of the criminal justice system.” Through her charitable organization, she and her staff provide quality programs and enrichments to the youth of Chicago, such as counseling, workforce development and after-school programs. They network with other local providers to meet specific needs of students and families. The organization helps students develop practical skills such as: goal setting, self-confidence, accountability and positive anger expression. With Maurita as president, the Lyric Foundation is a supportive enriching force in the Chicago land area.
There’s a unique balance between Maurita’s job and her philanthropic work. By day she collects and analyzes criminal data for CPD and by night she reaches into those very communities, seeking to equip them with a higher quality of life and avoid the roads that lead to criminal activity. It’s obvious that Maurita Holmes doesn’t have a lot of spare time, however; Maurita is happiest when she is travelling the world using her analytical skills, leading thought provoking discussions, and planning community outreach activities. Through her inquisitive research, skilled communication and magnanimous service, Maurita’s excellent life investments assist and inspire many.