The Second Chance Act, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in 2008 and reauthorized in 2018, has paved the way for groundbreaking initiatives aimed at rebuilding lives and strengthening communities.
At this event, esteemed speakers will delve into the profound impact of the Second Chance Act over the past 15 years, the crucial need for continued support of reentry services, and the latest evidence-based strategies to reduce recidivism and promote successful reintegration.
Speakers will provide insightful perspectives on the critical role of reentry services in fostering brighter futures, stronger families, and safer communities. They will also highlight some of the significant achievements from the last 15 years.
Opening Remarks & Keynote Speakers
Rob Jeffreys, Director, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services and President, Correctional Leaders Association
Sen. Cory Booker (New Jersey) (tentative)
Rep. Carol Miller (West Virginia)
Rep. Bobby Scott (Virginia)
Rep. Kelly Armstrong (North Dakota)
Rep. Danny K. Davis (Illinois) (tentative)
Panelists
Megan Quattlebaum, Director, The Council of State Governments (CSG) Justice Center (Moderator)
Tammie Gregg, Principal Deputy Director, Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Rob Jeffreys, Director, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services and President, Correctional Leaders Association
Javier Reyes, Founder and CEO, Challenge II Change (Illinois)
Cam Ward, Director, Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles and Advisory Board Chair, CSG Justice Center
Prince Alvarado, Peer Support Specialist, Center for Family Services (New Jersey)
Sharon Bean, Camden County Jail Population Manager, Department of Corrections and Project Administrator, Peer Support Reentry Program in Camden County (New Jersey)
Congressional Briefing
Join us for a vital discussion on the impact of the #SecondChanceAct over the past 15 years and the critical need for reentry services. You’ll get to hear from congressional leaders, experts in the field, and recipients of past SCA funding.
Shawn Jenkins was appointed Chief of Staff for the Massachusetts Department of Corrections in March 2022. As Chief of Staff, Jenkins serves as the agency’s second in-command, and has direct oversight of legislative and public affairs. He coordinates with Commissioner Mici to strengthen the Department’s vision and mission and collaborates with command staff to ensure the implementation of the Department’s annual goals.
Cherelle Parker names Michael Resnick as new Philly Prisons Commissioner
Mayor Cherelle Parker announced the appointment of a new Philadelphia Prisons Commissioner. On Monday, Parker named Michael Resnick as her choice to lead the Philadelphia prison system.
“After conducting a nationwide search and consulting with subject-matter experts on corrections and public safety, I believe we have found and appointed exactly who we need to lead our prison system into a new era of safety and stability – Michael Resnick,” Parker said. “Michael Resnick brings a wealth of experience in criminal justice and public safety to his new role as the Parker Administration’s Prison Commissioner. He cares, and he is a manager who respects employees. We have challenges facing our correctional system, as do many other cities across our country. I believe Michael Resnick is the right choice to help us meet those challenges.”
Congratulations on your retirement Commissioner Blanche Carney! Thank you for your 28 years of dedication and service to corrections!
The White House: A Proclamation on Second Chance Month, 2024
America was founded on the promise of new beginnings. During Second Chance Month, we recommit to building a criminal justice system that lives up to those ideals so that people returning to their communities from jail or prison have a fair shot at the American Dream.
Every year, more than 650,000 people are released from State and Federal prisons, some leaving with nothing more than a few dollars and a bus ticket to start their new lives. In total, over 70 million Americans have a criminal history record, which can make it hard to secure a steady job, safe housing, affordable health care, or a good education — all important things to have when trying to build a good life. Studies show that when these needs are met, we do not just empower formerly incarcerated people — we prevent crime and make our communities safer.
That is why, last year, my Administration released a comprehensive strategic plan to improve the criminal justice system and strengthen public safety. It includes over 100 concrete actions that my Administration is taking to boost public safety by improving rehabilitation in jails and prisons, helping people rebuild their lives, and reducing unnecessary interactions with the criminal justice system so police officers can focus on fighting crime.
