The Institute for Youth and Justice Studies fulfills the mission of Florida Gulf Coast University as it “infuses the strengths of the traditional university with innovation and learning-centered spirit, its chief aim being to fulfill the academic, cultural, social, and career expectations of it’s constituents” by the development and implementation of research, practical application, and training in the area of youth development and juvenile justice. Faculty, students, colleagues, and community will serve as collaborators as a means to accomplish this mission.