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 of coffee. The first time I […]
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 moved. As a child, […]
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 firsthand how […]
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 part of a non-denominational church […]
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 whole new dimension […]
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 Videri” (To be, rather […]
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 myself space […]
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 present something unique—an interactive, choreographed conversation that immerses […]
The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences – Interactive Presentation
The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences – Interactive Presentation There’s something powerful about being in a room full of people who just get it. That’s exactly what I experienced at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) National Meeting in Denver, CO—an energy that’s hard to put into words but impossible to ignore. It’s the […]
Frank’s Freedom
Frank’s Freedom Seven years ago, I attended a conference that completely blew me away. A huge room filled with people who all had one thing in common – being convicted of a crime they didn’t commit. The conversations that unfolded were unlike anything I had ever experienced. The shared experiences elevated the discussions in ways […]