Bakersfield College’s Rising Scholars Program presented an event featuring four panelists who shared their stories as formerly incarcerated and incarcerated individuals.
The event was initiated by BC’s student government and moderated by Rising Scholar’s Program Director Angelica Perez.
All four panelists featured Israel Cota, Peer Mentor. Danielle Harris, student. Shawn Newsom,Associate Professor of History, and Trevor Turner, student. Rising Scholars provides higher education opportunities for individuals who are or have been incarcerated. They promote empowerment and seek individuals to provide support academically.
The panelists shared their personal experiences within The Rising Scholars Program and proved that they are productive people in society. Israel Cota shared, “In 1995, I’ve been to both federal and state prisons, I’ve served over 13 years in Pelican Bay. With the death of my younger brother, I went on a downward spiral and then I gave my life to God, I had nowhere to go but up.”
Danielle Harris shared, “When I first got incarcerated, I had a different mentality, since being in Rising Scholars, I did a total 360.” She added, “I know now I want to help people, I’m not letting my past define me.”Trevor Turner also shared, “I got a realization and my whole life has been the result of my own
choices, mentality, and behavior. That’s why I make better choices now and I thought about how far I can take myself up.”
Professor Newsom stated, “I grew up with parents who never escaped the 1960s, I’ve been from foster homes, and by the age of 18, life had beat me down to where I ended up in juvenile hall and prison.”
All panelists are not only members associated with Rising Scholars, but excel academically, are part of BC’s student body and represent being a model college student. They prove to have beat statistics and pre-judgement of society.
Every speaker showcased leadership, how to overcome adversity, and make the most out of any unfortunate circumstance life throws at you. As Second Chance Month comes to an end, be sure to enjoy a night of art hosted by Rising Scholars on April 25 at The BC Jones Art Gallery showcasing art from incarcerated individuals.