Rick Ornelas, DBH, MSW, is an associate teaching professor of social work practicum education and a leader in integrating social work within the legal system. He co-leads the Social Work and Public Safety Program, a pioneering partnership that combines social work with legal services to effectively serve communities. This multidisciplinary approach emphasizes education, training and community engagement, with graduate social work students working closely within legal and community organizations across the state to provide services and build community trust.

With over 35 years of law enforcement experience, including 25 years in public safety education and leadership, Ornelas provides valuable insights into public safety training. He develops and teaches curricula. His work promotes best practices in leadership, procedural justice, implicit bias, crisis response, first responder wellness, use of force and de-escalation, all grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed practices.

Beyond his academic and public safety initiatives, Ornelas actively supports the mental health and well-being of first responders and their families. He has extensive experience in organizational consulting, executive coaching and workforce development, working with agencies both locally and nationally to reimagine and enhance public safety systems.