About

Coroner since 2020

Meet Coroner Naida Rutherford

From a homeless teen to a history-making elected official Naida Rutherford is thankful for the gift she has been given- to serve the living and give a voice to the dead. The voters in Richland County, South Carolina, the state’s capital, chose her as their Coroner in 2020, making her the first woman, first medical professional, and first African-American to hold the title in the 173-year history of the office.

Championing Health and Compassion

Naida Rutherford: Bridging Medicine and Justice

Based in Columbia, SC, Naida maintains her national certification as a nurse practitioner, using her medical experience to help those in medically underserved areas. She connects medical professionals to community groups through her ASK A DOCTOR series truly meeting the community needs in their own neighborhoods. Coroner Rutherford uses her platform to address controversial health concerns and safety matters in the community.

From natural to unnatural deaths, Coroner Naida Rutherford helps families navigate through the shock and sorrow of losing a loved one. “Regardless of the circumstance, everyone’s story around their death is their truth, and their truth deserves to be told- with compassion and justice for all.”

Empowering Future Forensic Professionals

Inspiring the Future of Forensic Science

At Coroner’s Campus, we offer an innovative Forensic Science Education program that introduces high school students to the world of forensic science and Crime Scene Investigation. Led by Coroner Naida Rutherford, this unique program offers hands-on learning experiences and real-world applications in forensic science, making it a life-changing opportunity for students interested in pursuing careers in criminal justice, forensic science, and related fields.

Our Campus and Program

About Coroner's Campus

The Coroner's Campus, is the premier educational destination for students interested in Forensic Science Education.

Under the guidance of Coroner Naida Rutherford, our Crime Scene Investigation Program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in forensic science careers. This program is designed to engage students with real-world crime scene scenarios, teaching them essential skills such as crime scene analysis, body recovery, forensic pathology, and much more.

About Our Program:

The Crime Scene Investigation Program at Coroner’s Campus is more than just a learning experience—it’s a gateway to future careers in forensic science and law enforcement. Our program allows students to engage in practical, hands-on activities that align with what professionals in the field do daily. Throughout the course, students explore key forensic disciplines, including death investigation, forensic pathology, crime scene processing, and STEM-based investigations.

Students will gain critical insights into the world of forensic science and learn how to apply scientific principles to investigate death scenes. With the guidance of Coroner Naida Rutherford and experts from various forensic fields, students are given the chance to immerse themselves in a comprehensive curriculum that blends both theory and practice.

Hands-On Learning:

At Coroner’s Campus, students learn by doing. From investigating mock crime scenes to studying decomposition and examining forensic evidence, the Crime Scene Investigation Program ensures that students acquire real-world skills. Our Body Farm, a student-led forensic lab, provides a simulated environment where students can explore human anatomy, entomology, and forensic anthropology. These interactive experiences allow them to understand the science behind death investigations in a safe, structured setting.

Impact of the Program:

Our program not only fosters academic growth in forensic science but also encourages personal development. Students who complete the program gain a deeper understanding of crime scene investigation techniques and enhance their analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. By offering exposure to a wide range of careers in forensic science, our goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists, investigators, and public servants.

If you’re interested in enrolling or learning more about the Coroner’s Campus and our Cadet Program, please visit our Contact Page for more information.