Peter Parilla earned a doctorate in sociology with a specialization in criminology from the University of Minnesota.  He has been on the faculty at St. Thomas since 1982.  The courses he typically teaches include crime and delinquency, the sociology of corrections, and internships in criminal justice.  He is currently conducting research on the topic of distracted driving.  His administrative service at UST includes serving as chair of the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice and also as associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences.  He is pleased to be serving as the external chair of HHP.