Dr. Rebecca "Becky" Dawn Petersen earned a Bachelor of Science degree at Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri, a Master of Science degree at Arizona State University – Tempe, and finally a PhD in Justice Studies, also at Arizona State University – Tempe.

Becky spent a lifetime of teaching, first as an instructor of Juvenile Justice/Delinquency at Arizona State University, then as an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Texas and ultimately the past 17 years at Kennesaw State University where she finished out as an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice. 

Her areas of expertise were juvenile justice, juvenile delinquency, youth gangs, and research methods. She published two books, along with several other articles, was on several committees, and conducted several conference presentations.  Among the many awards she received, selected honors, and accolades, Becky was chosen four times to be named among the Who's Who of America.

Becky is preceded in death by her dad Dean Petersen (KS) and grandma Margorie Gunsell (MN), plus a few other relatives.

She is survived by her mom Karen Petersen (KS), a son, a daughter, a sister and her husband, a sister, a brother and his wife, an aunt, an uncle and his wife, along with several other aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended relatives.