I have done volunteer work for Sheryl “Mac” McCollum and the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute. I know her to be down-to-earth, victim-centered and a straight shooter. She is authentic and delivers the truth in a way that a victim’s family can usually digest. She guides me, the student, through questioning down a path where I can usually come to see the “light” for myself. And, apart from being an all around super sleuth, she cares to the depths of her soul. Proud to be assist and learn from CCIRI.
The team at the Cold Case Investigative Research is innovative and compassionate in how they tackle cold cases. They are inclusive in the cases the include and in who they welcome as volunteers. They are also good stewards of the funds donated to them. Having worked almost exclusively with nonprofits in my professional and volunteer careers, I know this magical combination is NOT common. I rated them 5 stars because 10 wasn't an option.
Sheryl and CCIRI are as professional and diligent as any organization in the space. Not only that, but her compassion for everyone is beyond compare. She has no equal!
As one of the students I can tell you there is no other organization that allows us the opportunity to investigate real cases while helping real families!
Sheryl Mac and her team are huge asset to victims and their families!! Their dedication, determination skills and knowledge go above and beyond expectations. They are the voices of the voiceless!!
Wonderful organization that continues, year and year, to help victims and their families. Sheryl Mac is a true expert. I would recommend CCIRI anytime!
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Always a pleasure to work with Sheryl and her organization. She is caring, goes the extra mile and freely gives her expertise and time to help victims and their families. CCIRI is hands-down one of the best non-profits out there for victims and their families.
Sheryl McCollum and the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute provide hope for the families of cold case homicide victims. Through networking with world renowned experts in the field of forensic investigation and providing funding for the latest technology for agencies investigating cold case homicides. Having experienced some success in cold case investigations I realize the great value of the kind of support provided by the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, they provide hope to those who feel they are in a hopeless situation. Inv . Clay Bryant
Amazing organization bringing cold cases to the public eye with groundbreaking experts to bring justice for the victims
Sheryl McCollum and the Cold Case Investigative Research institute have worked tirelessly on many missing persons cases. They have helped so many victims’ families seek and gain the justice they so richly deserve. I applaud this institute’s dedication to crime victims and crime victims’ rights.
The BEST research and learning institute for those interested in forensics and investigations. Sheryl McCollum is a top-notch teacher, mentor, and all-around victim's advocate with the knowledge, experience, empathy, and good old-fashioned shoe leather smarts to get the job DONE. I can't say enough about the CCRI and what a blessing it is to the families left behind.
I have never met a more selfless person than Sheryl McCollum of the Cold Case Research Institute. She is dedicated to being a help to all people dealing with the loss of a loved one. She goes above and beyond to inform us about the inner working of cases we are covering. She has a kind heart and her work with our #LoveWins campaign is just incredible. This is such an amazing Institute I don't have enough words to convey how important the work they do truly is.
Absolutely not enough words to describe how important CCIRII IS!! Absolutely the best of the best!!! Sheryl McCollum is totally amazing!!!!
I must say I was there from birth. Sheryl McCollum had a vision and birth it to life. I have to say now as a senior investigator who now works mostly in the back scene can never thank her enough. This opportunity help define who I am today. I am one of the sharpest tools in investigation and I owe it all to her vision and dream. Most of all the families that we have build relatioship and bonds with that will never be broken. Our imputs that have brought fresh eyes, new pespective and open hearts has truly been our gift. As long as the CCRI stands and it will I will always be there
CCIRI sets the bar for Cold Case Investigations. Sheryl McCollum has a passion to help those affected by heinous crimes to find the answers and bring the offenders to justice. CCIRI has amassed hundreds of experts who donate their time and the institute never charges for their expertise. The institute also insures that future investigators are exposed and trained in Cold Case Investigations through classes and travels to the scene. The future of Cold Case Investigations is bright with the CCIRI leading the way.
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The CCIRI is an amazing, one of a kind, organization that helps victims families find answers to their Cold Cases. While seeking the truth, the institute teaches/mentors future criminal justice professionals with hundreds of the worlds leading experts. CCIRI has never taken a single dollar in profit and uses the donations to help solve the cold cases. Sheryl McCollum's years of experience in the field, stunning ability to bring in experts from around the world, sincere compassion for the victims families, and the never dying passion for the truth makes the CCIRI the best nonprofit in its class.
The work Sheryl McCollum and CCIRI do is so important and incredibly selfless. They work tirelessly for their clients and the victims of heinous crimes that have gone unsolved.
CCIRI does so many amazing things to help others. The expertise and professionalism is outstanding. Sheryl McCollum
Goes the extra mile for every single case she handles. As an expert in her field along with her crazy hours and demands, Sheryl McCollum could easily be too busy for the everyday person. Yet, Sheryl takes time to make sure each individual feels important, valued, and every question asked is answered. CCIRI and Sheryl pour their time, energy, kindness, compassion, expertise, and respect in everything they do. Thank you, Sheryl, for the many you have helped and all those who will be in your path in the future. You have brought hope to the hopeless. Your session at CrimeCon 2019 with Kathy Kleiner was above and beyond expectations. Thank you!
I have had to opportunity to work with Sheryl and see her in action when it comes to working on cold cases. She is dedicated, intelligent, caring, and above all else committed to work she does.
I have had frequent interactions with Sheryl and the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute and I can tell you, from first-and experience, this is a phenomenal organization and Sheryl is, not only an amazing lady, she is immensely knowledgable of cold case investigations.
As the host of Crime & Forensics, I have had Sheryl on my show numerous times and her wealth of knowledge and expertise with cold case investigations has catapulted our show topic to a greater understanding to our listeners.
Sheryl and the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute have a decided impact in their field!
Steven David Lampley,
Host, Crime & Forensics
Speaker and Author
CCIRII, led my Sheryl McCullom, is a top notch cold case investigative group that is on the cutting edge. As a relatively new forensic tool on the market, Sheryl recognized the value of the M-Vac and immediately began to incorporate it in their investigations. That's only one example. Staying up to date on the latest in investigative tools, combined with years of experience, enables CCIRII to help agencies solve cases that no other group can.
If I could give this organization 1000 stars I would. The work effort and seflessness. Speak for it self.
Love everything about it. Thank you and keep up the great work
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My teacher's title was Criminal Justice Professor, she was one of the best. She was very patient, informative, and respectful to students. She made sure that we had the hands on experience that not only could last a life time, but things we could use in our future careers. Thank you to one of the best.
I love the work that CCIRI does for victims of crime and their families. The very talented Sheryl McCollum and her dedicated team work tirelessly in their pursuit of resolution for long unanswered questions about who, what, when and most of all why.
I always feel good about donating to CCIRI because I know that that all proceeds will be used wisely and to help people desperately seeking the truth.
My daughter Jessie Foster has been missing for 12 and 1/2 years. Sheryl and I became acquainted when this first happened, and she has being there supporting me in the search for Jessie ever since. The work Cold Case Investigative Research Institute does for the families is so extreme and helpful that I don't even have enough words to compliment them. Thank you.
I have known Sheryl McCollum for many years. Ms. McCollum's dedication to her students and the cases she volunteers to work on is surpassed by no one else. The Cold Case Investigative Research Institute is becoming one of the most respected investigative schools in the country. The students and faculty help families with their often forgotten cases of murder against their loved ones. CCIRI does not take any money for helping others. The fantastic work by the students while guided by their teachers is groundbreaking. Eager students and dedicated teachers led by the incredible Ms. McCullom sets an example that all schools should follow. Never hesitate to give to this wonderful nonprofit organization.
I want to express my thanks and appreciation to Sheryl McCollum. Throughout the years Ms. McCollum has been ready and willing to help with Websleuths projects and has done so with complete professionalism and expertise.
The Cold Case Investigative Research Institute and Sheryl McCollum equal the perfect one-two punch to solving cold cases.
Tricia Griffith
Owner/Websleuths.com
CCIRI is a wonderful nonprofit organization with an excellent leader, Sheryl McCollum!!! The passion and expertise this team brings is unmatched.
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As a former student of Mrs. McCollum's, I had the opportunity to be a part of the groundbreaking work of CCIRI. Our first case began with TuPac Shakur. I witnessed the passion Sheryl McCollum has for this field, the victims, and families involved. She's dedicated to her job and also teaching others that have a desire to learn. I strongly support CCIRI and all future endeavors of Mrs. McCollum!
It has been a honor to be associated with CCIRI top notch organization of Professional Experts in the law enforcement field outstanding investigative skills. Sheryl McCollum is definitely a skilled professional in the study of cold cases, my father CJ Strickland with the Atlanta Police Department worked one of Atlanta's most intriguing cases The Disappearance of Mary Shotwell Little the only case he did not solve in his 35 year career, dad retired and this case still went unsolved and cold.Decades later CCIRI and Sheryl McCollum were instrumental in pushing to have this case reopened and the original players in this case were brought back to join the CCIRI TEAM what a outstanding event it was. Thank You CCIRI and Sheryl McCollum for this dedication to this case.
Sincerely Mike Strickland
We lost our Robert 20 years ago. Its so helpless. When we reached out to Sheryl Mccollum and the team at Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, we immediately felt like someone cared. The team has worked tirelessly to give us a shot at finding out what happened. They use ever resource they have, and for a family like ours, that commitment means the world. We are so fortunate to have come across the good folks at Cold Case Investigative Research Institute and encourage anyone else searching for answers to seek their help. Please continue to do the great work you all have become known for!
Cold Case Institute bringing resolution to families while bring forth the truth and justice while teaching our forensics students for the next generation of detectives across America. I love you Sheryl and the cold case institute. Sister of Jason Dale Bolton unsolved murder case August 21 1991..
CCIRI and its expert team have done outstanding work on the Colonial Parkway Murders! Sheryl McCollum and her colleagues have gone above and beyond to help the victim’s families search for answers in a case that has baffled investigators. Their compassion and dedication has certainly benefitted the case!
The Cold Case Investigative Research Institute is a remarkable nonprofit organization that constantly seeks to bring justice to families. The face of the organization, Sheryl McCollum, is a tremendous leader and an amazing human being who is committed to helping others. CCIRI uses grit, determination, and perseverance to solve unanswered questions and provide clarity to families. I support this organization's efforts and will continue to do so!
This is a great organization led by a true and compassionate professional, Sheryl McCollum. Her dedication and compassion toward crime victims is the reason why CCRI is such a success in getting answers to the questions most often asked from family members. Her team of volunteers, students, and experts all dedicate themselves in helping Shery (and CCRI) in bringing justice to those who deserve it and hope to families who need it! It is an honor to be associated with CCRI. Sheryl is a driving force who inspires us all to remember victims long forgotten. Thank you Sheryl and CCRI!!
I became acquainted with the CCIRI from its inception at the former Bauder College. There I met Sheryl McCollum, a gifted criminal justice professor and professional. Her tutelage led an enthusiastic group of students to delve deeply into some of the nation's most public unsolved cases and to make discoveries that pushed them forward toward being solved. I am enduringly amazed at the deep detective work "Chief" McCollum and her students accomplished. It was one of the most enriching academic experiences of my career. This institute and Professor McCollum have propelled many successful careers in criminal justice as well as given families resolution. I highly recommend the work of this Institute and hope for its long, successful operation.
On the days working with the Cold Case Instution, the cases felt to me as personal. What I meant by felt to me as personal is getting closer and peace for the victims families. Even some of the cases worked on didn’t make any sense on the conclusion at the beginning before it came a cold case. The cold case thought myself things not always seems what said happened or appeared to be. Examples of things don’t seems to happened or appeared to be on the original report are the Kirsten Davis case and the Boston strangler case couple of examples. You got to figure out the missing pieces what the original report failed to do.
I had the pleasure to work with the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, and when I say pleasure that is understating the feelings I took away from interacting with them here in Oklahoma.
They have the determination to bring every resource available to bear on a case. And they make it clear that they won't engage in a case unless they're sure they can give it the respect and attention that a case deserves.
Wonderful organization.
The Cold Case Investigative Research Institute is a trail blazer and a picture of how crimes will be solved in our near future. Passionate and compassionate, the volunteers work tirelessly to help solve cold cases that have haunted our nation for years. Through ground breaking technology, concepts, and the brightest minds our investigation system has to offer, the Institute delivers on every penny they receive. This is a nonprofit that not only can you be proud to donate to, but they make you feel like you are part of the team and treat you like family. Consider donating to this fantastic nonprofit. I did, and it is one of the best decisions I have ever made.
I am a former student and this team is what actually sold me on attending school. Just to be apart of something so monumental was awesome. I gained so much knowledge and saw lives change before my eyes! Whatever Caption McCullum touches turns into greatness! I couldn’t be more proud of being able to say i was once apart of something so great! Much success and continue being phenomenal!
I literally do not know where to start after this sentence....so let’s hope for the best.
Sheryl McCollum has been so much of an inspiration to me on my journey from a student to being in the Justice system. She is someone that is not wasting her time she has found ways to use anyone rather it be someone that is a student someone that is expert or signs in daily life. She includes everyone willing to help these families get closure. It’s an amazing organization for the primary reason of solving cases. But also an amazing way to meet people with passion to help and to network in your field.
I was actual Bauder College student volunteer in the Cold Case Investigation Research Institute 2007 to 2011...My first case was Wayne Williams case where the prosecutors believe he was responsible for the murders of 23 of 29 children in Atlanta area. In this institute we learned the technique to ask the right questions to get answers for today....I still use these tool as Mental Health Paraprofessionals. Its a blessing to see program still striving under Chief Sheryl McCollum. We thank you for not taking no for an answer and allowing us students learn under your leadership.
An amazing nonprofit! Sheryl McCollum is the best in the business. This organization really cares about cracking these cases & giving families closure.
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The CCIRI is an amazing nonprofit staffed by remarkable human beings who are incredibly dedicated to what they do. The work tirelessly and educate others to help bring justice and peace to families in cases left long unsolved.
Sheryl McCollum does amazing work...she brings justice to families who have almost lost hope. This is one of my favorite groups to donate to because I know every dollar will be used wisely and well. I can't say enough about CCIRI!
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I have attended numerous events held by the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute. They are such a top notch groups of people helping so many families seek justice. What a tragedy to lose a loved one to murder..but an even greater tragedy to have no justice....This institute strives to bring that closure to the families and make sure the guilty party pays for their crimes. This is by far one of my favorite charities to donate to and attend their functions.
As a body language expert, I have contributed my expertise to Sheryl McCollum's organization and all I can say is that she is the BEST there is. We worked on the Natalie Wood unsolved crime which happened back in the 1980's. Sheryl was the one who brought this then forgotten unsolved crime to having worldwide attention decades later, with a possible resolution in the very near future. She is a dedicated professional and an excellent communicator who brings to life those who cannot speak for themselves. I have been on many panels with Sheryl in the media and all I can say is she is the consummate professional.
Sheryl and her team are professional and the best in the business
Their work is helping families find the answers they so desperately need. Every case gets the same attention to detail that they all deserve. Having met Sheryl in person, her expertise and passion can be felt after just a few minutes and is passed on to all those she works with. This nonprofit is changing lives with the work they do.
We are a small non-profit agency serving those left behind after violent death - for every person murdered, there are as many as 10 people immediately and forever affected - mothers, fathers, siblings, wives, husbands, children, etc. One of the main heartbreaks for many of these families is that no offender is every identified and the cases become "cold". The CCIRI came to Albuquerque to help a 25+ year cold case and brought helpers, experts, worked the scene - actually found a new witness - and reviewed all our case materials. All at no cost to us and with adding on-going support. We at NIA/NM's Resource Center for Victims of Violent Death on behalf of all those without answers say THANK YOU and give the HIGHEST rating.
A more dedicated group you will never find. Led by Sheryl McCollum the CCI treats all family members with respect & determination to solve the case. Unanswered questions will be answered. The group works with law enforcement and all avenues will be explored to reach a satisfactory conclusion. I support this groups efforts & professionalism 100 %.
This the greatest organization I have ever been a part of... The families, volunteers, researchers, law enforcement agencies and all other professionals that help work to solve the cases that Cold Case Institute takes on are the best of the best.. As a former student researcher, I have been, and continue to be, impressed by the level of dedication or Sheryl McCollum and others. This group is truly doing God's work because everyone involved cares about victims of crimes..
The people at the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute (CCIRI) do amazing work to educate investigators, forensic experts, media people and citizens at large, perhaps most importantly benefiting the victims of violent crime. A tremendous asset to their community. Strongly recommended.
Cold Case Investigative Research Institute Inc is dedicated to excellence. Sheryl McCollum is a consummate professional dedicated to what is so often missing in others with good intentions: the means.
The means to solving cold cases presupposes caring about justice for victims, drive, and commitment. These are all expected. It is in Mac's commitment to deep learning of the oft-overlooked detail within a case, through the statements and interviews, where truth is found. Some estimates indicate that up to 70% of unsolved cases contain a "confession by pronoun" within the files; that is, somewhere within the files, a person has given a verbal indication of guilty knowledge of the crime. This is not found without intense and ongoing training.
When one is as dedicated to small detail as Sheryl McCollum is, success in these cold cases will be realized.
I endorse Cold Case Investigative Research Institute and hope that other like minded investigators, will engage and collaborate to facilitate justice and closure for the families of victims. A team of commitment to ongoing learning professionals is unstoppable. They share not only their expertise with each other, but their enthusiasm for learning new methods is contagious.
Mac's personal commitment is enhanced by this intense drive to get to the truth through learning.
Peter Hyatt
Hyatt Analysis Services
www.hyattanalysis.com
When you read all of the articles online about CCIRI, you realize how astounding this organization is. The lives they have touched over the years is truly amazing. Sheryl McCollum is an unique individual who does the right thing and has the victims in mind in everything she does. And as for the students, her impact is immeasurable. They have an opportunity as college students to work on real cases. This dos not seems to be afforded to other students in any degree program. OI wish I had the access to the experts they get to talk to when I was in school. Great Job - Please keep up the great work in helping others.
The Cold Case Institute headed by Sheryl McCollum provides an amazing service. Their group of professionals and students work tirelessly to help us with answers into our friend's murder. The Cold Case folks are a group of smart and talented sleuths with a big heart. Thanks to the Cold Case Institute we were able to connect with some of the top law enforcement to look into our friends murder. I recommend the Cold Case Institute if you're looking for answers into a cold case.
The CCIRI is at BEST the most positive Institute that gives great hands on experience. I'm proud to say I've volunteered for such institute. Its just a great thing to be a part of. You get to continuously help others and its ongoing. The passion this institute holds shows by going beyond and outward for families to bring closure no matter the age of the case. I will always support the CCIRI!! Thanks for all that you've taught me through this institute. The skills and vocabulary you learn will stick with you along the way!! Hands down its just a great team to be a part of!!
The people involved in this organization are not only absolutely professional, but exude excellence and dedication to their cause. I have never met a more dedicated group of individuals. Not only that, they are inspiring. They have inspired me to further my own education in order to help victims of crime. It would be an honor to work or support them in any capacity. I am a nurse practitioner and they have influenced me greatly to someday be a colleague in their pursuit of justice and wholeness to victims and families of violent crime.
The cold case institute has been a God send to many families who need closer. It also has built many student who are starting in the criminal justice field. I personally gained a lot from this program that i even assist in solving my cousin murder. Sheryl McCollum is a dedicated and passionate teacher and person and everyone should invest in her program so she can heal more families.
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The CIRII is a great program with hard working volunteer and a dedicated leader. Sheryl McCollum had dedicated her time and resources to bring peace to many families who has lost their family member. This program also help student gain experience for their future career in criminal justice. Please donate so Ms. McCollum and the institute so they can continue to solve cold cases and bring justice and peace.
THANK YOU! My situation is a bit unusual. I am a victim of neglect & survivor of severe child abuse by my father who was a serial killer. His father was one of his victims, who he brutally murdered. The CCIRI diligently & tirelessly worked his crimes & have made excellent progress. I pray for closure & peace for everyone affected by his evil. Thank you for your generosity & kindness In helping me & many others walking this unbearable journey. You are a blessing & the very best in what you do!
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amazing people. esp the students, cheryl, kelly. please donate. to a worthy cause. This a non profit org. So they need to continue with your help. They have helped familys. solve cases.work ard to make a diffrence. i saww first hand when i spoke for my sister kathleen Savio. Stacy Peterson. And was treated so important. But thats what they do help top rated. Thank you guys. sue savio
The CCIRI & Sheryl McCollum the Director is just incredible! They help so many and they don't stop until they get answers! I'm a big supporter of this charity and I encourage anyone & everyone support them! Sheryl is one phenomenal & incrediable lady! The experts who help and do not get paid and help these students get an education they would never have is just amazing! I'm honored $ privileged to Ba part by supporting them!! Paiger Swift
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This is one of the coolest programs in the united states!! I had the pleasure for three years in the row of letting my medical studies students be the crime lab. I love the innovation and the opportunities it allowed the students to investigate cases and also get real world experience.
Sheryl McCollum has done an incredible job with this program. She has taught and given students experiences that they would never be able to do on their own. She is one of the most dedicated teachers I have ever known. Her enthusiasm is contagious which ignites the students into learning by doing. She is the reason the Cold Case Investigative Institute has far exceeded any program of its kind.
Sheryl approached me years ago wanting to get our University and students (Auburn Montgomery) involved. We got involved with another local University, Faulkner University, and have held joint events for the students. It has been a win/win situation for the students. This effort helped us to develop a Cold Case class where University students get to work actual cases. The hands on experience for the students is priceless!! I have never seen so many excited students wanting to participate and be a part of the investigative world. It is amazing to see how hard students will work and how energized they can become when given a chance to work with experts on investigating cases.
