Roundtable: Project Rebound - Expanding the Prison to College Pipeline through the California State University System

Session Submission Type: Roundtable Sessions

Abstract/Description

This roundtable will discuss the development and expansion of Project Rebound, a support program for formerly incarcerated students in the California State University (CSU) system. Started in 1967 at San Francisco State University by the late Dr. John Irwin, in the last ten years Project Rebound has expanded to 20 of the 23 CSU campuses with financial support from the state legislature. In 2024, Project Rebound won the ASC President’s Award for Distinguished Contributions to Justice. The program conducts outreach to prospective students in correctional facilities and in the community, assists with admissions and financial aid applications, provides mentoring and guidance for students on campus, develops connections with community partners that can provide reentry assistance to students, and offers some financial assistance and employment opportunities. Significantly, three of the campuses run a housing initiative for Project Rebound students. The program also coordinates with in-prison CSU Bachelor’s Degree programs to facilitate transition to a CSU campus for those who parole before completing their degree. Project Rebound supports the practice of ‘each one, teach one’ and prioritizes building a holistic network of support and community engagement for students. We will discuss successes and challenges, logistics and funding, ongoing evaluation, and future plans.

Sub Unit

• Area XIV. Roundtables

Chair

• Emma Hughes, California State University, Fresno

Discussants

• Annika Yvette Anderson, California State University, San Bernardino

• C. Jason Bell, San Francisco State University

• Jennifer Leahy, California State University, Fresno

• Sofia Alvarenga, California State University, San Bernardino