In 1999, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) scrutinized the status and needs of the forensic-science community, concluding that its training needs were “immense.” The development of new technology, equipment, methods, and techniques demands that forensic scientists stay up-to-date, necessitating that the forensic-science community broaden its scope of training. NIJ concluded that “[f]orensic professionals need to take advantage of the explosion in information technology and the ability to use it to exchange information and deliver training,” and provided several recommendations. Noted authority on expert testimony and scientific evidence Carol Henderson, a law professor with previous experience at the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the United States Attorney’s Office, assumed leadership in developing a program to meet some of the needs specified by NIJ. The National Clearinghouse for Science, Technology and the Law at Stetson University College of Law (NCSTL) was born. NCSTL became a nationwide organization that provides information-sharing and
professional development not only to forensic scientists, but also to lawyers, judges, law enforcement personnel, and the general public.