CANTON -- While most criminal investigation and criminal justice students collect evidence, eight SUNY Canton students recently collected trophies.

The students, members of SUNY Canton's chapter of the American Criminal Justice Association, competed in the Region 4 Conference recently at West Virginia State University. After two days of written exams and rigorous competition, the students walked away with 12 wins, picking up more than half of the academic trophies awarded.

Elizabeth S. Ayers was the top overall individual competitor and "Top Knowledge" winner, earning a first place finish in the juvenile Justice competition, second in corrections, and third in police management.

The students competed in seven categories with several students earning top-three finishes, including T.J. Stafford, who also earned first place in corrections. The University of Connecticut, University of Pittsburgh, University of New Haven, West Virginia State University, James Madison University and Radford University were among the dozen schools in attendance.

Andrew C. Wood, president of the club, said "We are really lucky to have the experienced faculty and professors that we do. Because of the hands-on work they have us do in the classroom and the experience in the field we're required to complete, we already have a leg up in terms of preparation."

Brian K. Harte, assistant professor of criminal justice and the club's advisor, said the competition "builds upon the notion that in this field, it's often about camaraderie and being able to work together as a unit."

One of the additional benefits of attending the regional conference was the Criminal Justice Job Fair, held before competition began. "It's beneficial for our seniors looking for employment, but also for juniors who are getting a head start on looking for internships," Wood said, who noted that the FBI, DEA and State Police were among the many organizations represented.

After their success at the regional event, the students are eager to find a way to attend the association's national conference March 20-25 in Memphis, Tenn. Their attendance will depend on raising funds for the club to travel and compete there.

"We're seeking support from anyone willing to help us get to Memphis," Wood said. "We are in the process of speaking with local businesses who are interested in helping us and we will be doing a number of fundraisers on campus throughout the next few months."