No Resolutions

No Resolutions No Resolutions No Resolutions. Life moves fast—sometimes faster than I can keep up. With information coming at us from every direction, it’s easy to feel like we’re just reacting to what’s next rather than staying intentional about what really matters. That’s why carving out time to reflect isn’t just a luxury; it’s a […]

Experiential Criminal Justice Learning

Experiential Criminal Justice Learning Experiential Criminal Justice Learning I feel incredibly fortunate to learn from the next generation. At Impartial, we’ve built nearly everything with the help of a small army of volunteers—most of them under 30, including a remarkable 15-year-old writer. Their intelligence, creativity, and passion have been instrumental in our journey. While most […]

Artwork, good to the last drop.

Artwork, good to the last drop. Artwork, good to the last drop. It’s a ritual for so many of us to start the day with a cup of coffee—but what if that coffee became your art supply? Stay with me. I’ve been working with a prison artist who specializes in creating stunning artwork entirely out […]

The King of Character

The King of Character The King of Character In recent weeks, I attended Duke University’s 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Service of Commemoration, themed “Hope Powered by Community.” The event was deeply inspiring. The first time I heard Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, especially the phrase “content of their character,” I was profoundly […]

Grammy Gala

Grammy Gala Grammy Gala Consistency and focus can take you further than you ever imagined. The challenge, however, is patience. You never know when or who will notice your work—you only know that you are putting in the effort that needs to be done. For years, I have worked with prison artwork and have seen […]

Reflection: Woolworth’s Lunch Counter Sit-in

Reflection: Woolworth’s Lunch Counter Sit-in Reflection: Woolworth’s Lunch Counter Sit-in I was sitting in church on Sunday, listening intently. I often find moments of inspiration there. It’s likely because I allow myself the opportunity to be still and reflective for an extended period—something not always as easy to achieve as it should be. I’ve been […]

Communities Profound Impact

Communities Profound Impact Communities Profound Impact At different points in life, we may pause and reflect on the people we’ve known, recognizing them beyond the roles we originally assigned to them. Unfortunately, this realization often comes when someone passes away. Suddenly, a gathering of people—some we never knew existed—come forward, sharing stories that reveal a […]

Journey’s Third Year Celebration

Journey’s Third Year Celebration Journey’s Third Year Celebration On February 22, I witnessed something extraordinary at Journey’s third-year celebration—a gathering that transcended typical nonprofit events and revealed the profound impact of authentic criminal justice reform. Journey, born from the vision of a formerly incarcerated person, opened their presentation with North Carolina’s state motto: “Esse Quam […]

Judging Inspiration

Judging Inspiration Judging Inspiration Inspiration can be tricky. Sometimes, we chase it—reading books, attending conferences, or brainstorming endlessly—hoping that the next great idea will appear. But other times, inspiration sneaks up on us when we least expect it. One of the best inspirations I’ve ever had didn’t come from actively searching; it came from giving […]

Stepping Into Justice: A Choreographed Conversation at ACJS

Stepping Into Justice: A Choreographed Conversation at ACJS Stepping Into Justice: A Choreographed Conversation at ACJS I’m beyond excited to attend the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences’ National Meeting today! It’s an incredible opportunity to engage with students, educators, and professionals who are passionate about the criminal justice system. This year, I’ve been invited to […]