Formerly incarcerated students with college degrees struggle to find jobs because of their criminal records. A new center wants to change that.

The Center for Justice and Economic Advancement will work with colleges, employers, and policymakers to create more welcoming admissions processes, help formerly incarcerated students access state financial aid, and develop and improve support programs, among other measures.

Cesar Soberanes, 19, had big plans to attend Arizona State University. Then, the pandemic and finances forced him to abruptly change course.

Soberanes is not alone in his pandemic-related frustration as a young Latino with college ambitions. Administrators are now trying to reengage and reconnect with students who left during the pandemic, while providing additional supports to keep the ones they have.

College recovery programs remain small and relatively unknown, often wrapped up with the student-conduct system. 

Experts say these programs need more “touch points” so students with substance-use issues don’t fall between the cracks, and those seeking substance-free fellowship on campus can find it.