Upcoming Events
- Please check back to learn about upcoming events for Rising Scholars and their allies.
Previous Events
Second Chance Month: April 2025
The Rising Scholars program is hosting several upcoming events in connection with Second Chance Month, a national initiative dedicated to raising awareness of the challenges faced by
formerly incarcerated individuals. Rising Scholars is committed to providing education, support and community for students affected by the justice system.
- Free expungement clinic – Tuesday, April 15 – 3-7 p.m. in Campus Center Conference Rooms A&B: You can get legal guidance on clearing your record and taking steps toward new opportunities in employment, education and housing with Time Done.
- Film screening – Tuesday, April 22 – 2:30-4 p.m. in RSS 146: Join us for a screening and discussion of “Reclaiming Our Humanity,” a film that explores the challenges and triumphs of individuals affected by the justice system as they rebuild their lives. Pizza and drinks will be provided.
- Artistic Expression Workshop – Wednesday, April 23 – 1-3 p.m. in L-21 (Artistic Expression Village Center): Get creative with your peers! We'll be engaging in self-expression, reflection and community through mixed-media art. You can explore your experiences, reflect on barriers and goals, and envision your future. Art supplies will be provided!
- Breaking Barriers: A Talk With Jodi Anderson, Jr. – Monday, April 28 – Noon-1:30 p.m. in L-73 (Social Sciences and Humanities Village Center): Hear the co-founder of rézme speak about his own experiences with incarceration and his journey to leadership in the business world. Jodi Anderson's story highlights the systemic impact of incarceration and offers critical insights into ways that lived experience can drive institutional change. Anderson is currently leading innovation efforts at Cornell University, with past roles in EdTech at Stanford University and Reddit.
"Searching for Justice" – Spring 2024 Film Screening
Rising Scholars hosted a film screening of the PBS NewsHour documentary “Searching for Justice: Life
After Lockup” on Wednesday, March 13. The film focuses on the many challenges individuals
face after incarceration, from reconnecting with family to finding work and staying
out of jail.
After the screening in the Multicultural Center, a panel of students, alumni, faculty members, staff and administrators shared their experiences with the criminal justice system and discussed ways to support formerly incarcerated students. The event was co-hosted by the Equity and Engagement Division and the Office of Professional Development.
Welcome Meeting
New students and allies of the Rising Scholars program gathered for an introductory meeting on Feb. 6, 2024.
