Dr. Everette B. Penn: TAPS Co-founder and Professor of Criminology at University of Houston - Clear Lake

As a criminologist, Dr. Penn has numerous publications and international presentations on youth, crime prevention, race and crime. He is the co-author of the book Race and Juvenile Justice and author of Texas Juvenile Justice. He brings the academic rigor and practical community crime prevention experience to lead TAPS Academy as Founder and Principle Investigator.

Assistant Chief Brian Lumpkin (Ret.): TAPS Co-founder, East Patrol Command, Houston Police Department

A 30-year veteran of the Houston Police department, Assistant Chief Brian Lumpkin (Ret.) was assigned to East Patrol Command, which oversees the patrol operations at four patrol stations. His career and leadership is vital in managing the law enforcement mentors of TAPS Academy-Houston, including personnel and participation. Chief Lumpkin’s leadership has been instrumental in launching the TAPS Academy program.

Dr. Chenelle A. Jones: Director of Research

Dr. Chenelle A. Jones is Assistant Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Franklin University. Dr. Jones has spoken at national conferences on issues of policing, disproportionate minority contact (DMC), and comparative issues in criminal justice. Dr. Jones uses her knowledge and research interests in policing, race and crime, and juvenile delinquency to ensure TAPS is tackling important and relevant issues that affect today’s at-risk youth.

Matthew J. Wilmaning: Project Director, TAPS Houston

Mr. Wilmaning is the graduate of the University of Houston-Clear Lake. He holds degrees in Biology, Criminology and an advanced degree in Psychology. He is a contributing author to the book Intersectional Pedagogy: Complicating Identity and Social Justice, a guest lecturer on the topic of toxic masculinity, and completed a 500-hour internship in less than one semester.
He has been with the TAPS Academy for almost 18 months and is very passionate about its mission.
In his spare time, he enjoys long-distance hiking, motorcycling and martial arts. He is the Step-father of an amazing 13 year-old daughter and welcomed his playful son into the world in April of 2018.

Pete Melchor: Program Manager, TAPS Houston