Mount St. Mary's University Hosts Thrilling Annual CSI Challenge Competition

Annual Robert 'Bob' Fram CSI Challenge at Mount St. Mary's University

On April 16, 2026, Mount St. Mary’s University hosted its much-anticipated Robert 'Bob' Fram CSI Challenge, attracting six dedicated student teams from the university. This exciting event is a unique hands-on forensic investigation competition that simulates real-world crime scene analysis, designed to hone students' skills in forensic science and criminal investigation.

The challenge consisted of teams of three students each, tasked with the daunting mission of processing a mock crime scene within stringent time constraints. This year, the top honors went to the team comprising Emma Kaden, Joelle Hamel, and Destiny Stansbury, each receiving a cash prize of $100 for their exceptional performance.

The CSI Challenge aims to foster educational and career interests in forensic science. Organized by the Criminal Justice Student Association (CJSA) at Mount St. Mary’s, this event was co-sponsored by the Frederick Police Department, bridging academic pursuits and practical law enforcement experience. The event inspired participation from a roster of crime scene technicians and seasoned law enforcement experts who provided insights into forensic science, criminal profiling, and investigative techniques.

During the competition, student teams were dispatched to a meticulously crafted crime scene based on a real homicide case. They were evaluated on critical elements such as professionalism, the meticulous collection and preservation of evidence, written documentation, witness interviews, and teamwork. Participants engaged in a comprehensive investigation process that included DNA swabbing, fingerprint collection, blood evidence recovery, and witness interviewing, ultimately culminating in an extensive crime scene report.

The pressure of the competition, coupled with tight time limits, allowed students to demonstrate their ability to translate classroom knowledge into practical skills in a high-stakes environment. Evaluation was performed by detectives from the Frederick Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Unit alongside forensic specialists and technicians from surrounding areas, ensuring that students received professional feedback on their efforts.

This year’s competition built on an authentic homicide investigation conducted by the Pennsylvania State Police. After the intense competition, students attended a case presentation that detailed the thorough investigative process from the initial response to successful prosecution, led by Corporal Todd McCurdy and Trooper Jeremy Holderbaum. They presented how investigators identified and apprehended a fugitive suspect involved in the murder of an elderly woman, as well as subsequent burglary and arson attempts aimed at hiding the crime.

Corporal McCurdy praised the students, stating, “Our team spent countless hours processing the actual crime scene, so it is impressive to see what these students achieved in just 50 minutes.”
Professor Joe Vince, the faculty advisor for the CJSA, emphasized the broader educational value this competition holds, declaring, “Learning at the Mount extends far beyond traditional classroom experiences. We are committed to providing our students with the necessary exposure to real-world experiences to prepare them for prospective careers in law enforcement and intelligence.” He expressed pride in the university's alumni who serve in various capacities at local, state, and federal levels, alongside the intelligence community, underscoring that the current students are continuing a legacy of service.

About Mount St. Mary's University

Located near the Catoctin Mountain in historic Emmitsburg, Maryland, Mount St. Mary’s University is a private liberal arts Catholic institution offering over 70 undergraduate majors and graduate programs. With a commitment to providing quality education through practical experiences, the university prepares its students for successful careers in various fields while fostering a strong sense of community and service.