20MM News Archive

NCHEP 2025: A Transformative Gathering in New Orleans

By Kenia Miranda Verdugo

Educators, advocates, students, and formerly incarcerated scholars gathered for the 14th National Conference on Higher Education in Prison (NCHEP) in New Orleans. The Alliance for Higher Education in Prison hosted the event, with support from a range of dedicated sponsors, including the Michelson 20MM Foundation. This year’s theme, “A New Era? Pell Reinstatement and the Future of Prison Education,” served as a catalyst for deep discussions on the evolving landscape of higher education in prison. We left the discussions truly inspired.

Building Connections and Collaborative Networks

The conference brought people together to collaborate on a common goal: expanding educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. Attendees traded ideas, shared stories, and forged partnerships to grow higher education in prison.

New Orleans: A City of Resilience and Renewal

The organizers intentionally chose New Orleans as the venue for NCHEP 2025. The city’s resilience and cultural renaissance mirrored the conference’s themes of transformation and empowerment. As a backdrop, New Orleans underscored the significance of education as a tool for liberation and community-driven change.

Ved Price, Executive Director of the Alliance for Higher Education in Prison, gave opening remarks.

Engaging Sessions and Thoughtful Dialogues

During the two-day conference, participants engaged in a series of sessions that delved into critical topics:

Navigating Pell Reinstatement: Discussions centered on the complexities of reintegrating Pell Grants into prison education programs. This included addressing accreditation, budgeting, and reporting challenges. One of these sessions introduced Navigating Forward. It is a suite of resources developed by the Tennessee Higher Education Initiative to help incarcerated students understand financial aid, Pell funding, and higher education policies.
Leveraging Technology: Explorations into the integration of digital tools, such as Zoom and virtual classrooms, can enhance educational access within correctional facilities. These discussions illustrated remote work opportunities within carceral settings, covering the technical and logistical aspects of these programs.
Student-Centered Design: Emphasis on the importance of incorporating student voices in program development to ensure relevance and effectiveness. We know that those closest to the problem are closest to the solution, these discussions emphasize that for program development. Some reentry programs were highlighted to show the success of when people with lived experience are immersed in development from start to finish.
The Need for Statewide Collaboration: Sessions focused on building consortia in states across the country in order to break down silos amongst stakeholders. The Michelson 20MM Foundation spoke of the need for formalized statewide collaboration in California in order to further achieve unified goals. This was followed by a panel discussion by the Mississippi Consortium for Higher Education in Prison (MCHEP) on the formation and impact of this collaborative initiative aimed at providing post-secondary education opportunities to incarcerated individuals in Mississippi.

At Michelson 20MM, we believe education is a powerful lever for equity. By supporting higher education in prison, we’re investing in a future where knowledge becomes a pathway to liberation.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Higher Education in Prison

As NCHEP 2025 concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a collective commitment to shaping the future of prison education. The discussions and connections made during the conference set the stage for continued advocacy and innovation in the field.

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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Student Parent at the Center: Highlights From the 2025 HOPE Conference

By Dr. Queena Hoang

Attendees from across the country came together in National Harbor, Maryland, for Generation Hope’s annual HOPE Conference. It was a timely and much-needed gathering amid shifting national policies and growing uncertainty about support for student parents. The event brought together advocates, educators, and changemakers, all united by a shared commitment to support parenting students. Throughout the conference, powerful stories, thoughtful strategies, and actionable solutions took center stage, all aimed at advancing equity in higher education for student parents.

Supporting Student Fathers

A key highlight from the conference was a panel discussion centered on student fathers. While student mothers often receive more visibility in research and reports, student fathers make up nearly 30% of the student parent population. Limited data and insufficient support often cause their experiences to be overlooked. This is especially true for Black, Native American, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander men, who are statistically more likely to be parenting while pursuing their education.

The conversation emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of student fathers to ensure they are included in policy decisions, resources, and support systems. According to one student panelist, student fathers are not the exception—they are actively engaged in their children’s lives, and it’s time we normalize and uplift that reality. Naming and addressing “student fathers” directly in our work is a critical step toward building more inclusive and responsive support systems.

Our Children Are Not the Barriers, the Systems Are

A powerful theme that echoed throughout the conference was the idea that “our children are not the barriers—the systems are.” For student parents, it’s not their role as caregivers that hinders their educational journey, but rather the rigid and inequitable systems they must navigate. Systems such as higher education institutions often lack flexible policies, affordable child care, and family-friendly support services. This makes it difficult for student parents to thrive while enrolled. Social service programs are frequently fragmented or inaccessible, failing to recognize the unique challenges students face. By shifting the narrative and reimagining these systems to be more inclusive and responsive, we can start removing the obstacles that stand in the way of student parents and their children’s success.

Power in Partnership: The Impact of Collective Philanthropy Through the California Collaborative Pooled Fund

Together with Amber Angel of the ECMC Foundation, Jessica Lee of The Pregnant Scholar, and Theresa Anderson of the Urban Institute, Michelson 20MM co-hosted a panel discussion highlighting the power of collective philanthropic action to drive equity and systemic change for student parents. Panelists shared insights into the California Student Parent Pooled Fund, a collaborative initiative that supports student-parent advocates and addresses fragmented efforts across California. Grounded in a multi-generational approach, the fund helps the whole family by working with both children and adults in accessing resources and building skills.

Jessica Lee, The Pregnant Scholar, Theresa Anderson, The Urban Insttute, Queena Hoang Michelson 20MM, Amber Angel, ECMC Foundation — Jessica Lee, The Pregnant Scholar; Theresa Anderson, The Urban Institute; Dr. Queena Hoang Michelson 20MM; and Amber Angel, ECMC Foundation

By continuing strategies from early childhood and higher education, the fund drives impact at multiple levels. These include family transformation, state-level systems change, and education policy improvements. During the session, panelists discussed how the pooled fund model promotes sustainable, collective action. It does so by aligning philanthropic stakeholders to advance equity for student-parent families. They emphasized how this approach helps break down silos, reduces duplication of efforts, and fosters strategic alignment across funders working toward a shared mission.

Student Parents Are at the Intersections of Many Issue Areas

As the conference came to a close, one message rang clear: Supporting student parents is not a side issue—it’s central to achieving equity in education. Whether it is addressing economic mobility, workforce development, or student basic needs, student parents are part of our populations. Their success creates ripple effects that uplift entire families and communities.

Trasi Watson, Senior Higher Ed Impact Manager, Generation Hope; Nicole Lynn Lewis, Founder & CEO, Generation Hope; Dr. Queena Hoang, Senior Program Manager, Michelson 20MM Foundation — Trasi Watson, Generation Hope; Nicole Lynn Lewis, Generation Hope; Dr. Queena Hoang, Michelson 20MM Foundation

Now is the time to take action. Whether you’re a policymaker, educator, funder, or advocate, we each have a role to play in building systems that recognize and respond to the realities of parenting students. Let’s continue to elevate their stories, challenge systemic barriers, and work together to ensure that student parents and their children not only succeed—but thrive.

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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A Call for Digital Equity in Los Angeles: Experiences of a Student Fellow

A Key to the Future of Equity: Experience from a Student Fellow

The Michelson 20MM Student Fellowship empowers students to lead change in higher education. In a 10-month program, fellows learn key advocacy skills, build projects that tackle student-identified challenges, and ultimately launch a student-led campaign. Digital Equity Fellow Francesca Romero authored a survey report that examines the consequences of the discontinuation of the Affordable Connectivity Program, champions the concept of public broadband for all, and urges Los Angeles to take action. Francesca shares more about her project, her experience with the fellowship, and her advice for future fellows.

What were you hoping to achieve during this fellowship?

I hoped to grow as an advocate for the communities I care about through work on housing and digital equity.

What did you enjoy the most about the fellowship?

I loved the freedom to shape my fellowship! At first, it felt intimidating to lead something on my own. Cristal and Marissa supported every step. Their guidance helped me to step into my own confidence as a leader. I used to be shy and hesitant to speak up. Now I feel confident sharing my voice in meetings or classrooms. I feel confident in my abilities as a leader.

What advice do you have for future fellows?

Say yes as often as you can. Be open to new people, projects, and possibilities! It can be scary, but taking the chance to pursue your passions is worth it. I have so many beautiful memories from my time during the fellowship and they were because I said yes more often. You’re a student, but your work can make a real difference.

How would you describe the impact of your project?

I believe my project made a real, positive impact in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles City Council passed a digital discrimination policy in 2024. Now, residents can identify and report discrimination in internet practices. It can be difficult to articulate these types of things, because most people don’t have the time to figure out their internet speeds vs. other neighborhoods’ speeds. I hope others build on my work to expand access. More research can support advocacy for municipally-owned broadband or reporting discrimination.

How has your experience with the fellowship and your project contributed to or helped inform your next career move?

The fellowship helped inform my career because I’m now open to working for a philanthropic organization in my legal career. Additionally, my interest in housing deepened through this experience. My project gave me fascinating insights into how redlining and housing discrimination feed into digital discrimination. People shouldn’t be cut off from important services because of their zip code. Despite that, digital discrimination is carried out against low-income neighborhoods, affecting their health, schooling, job, and resource outcomes. This work confirmed my passion for equity and justice.

To learn more about the Student Fellowship and apply, visit our website. We are accepting applications until May 6, 2025.

About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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Food Insecurity and International Students: Swipe Out Hunger’s Game-Changing Toolkit

One in three college students face food insecurity. This insecurity disproportionately affects historically underrepresented student groups, including international students. Additionally, more than one million international college students live in the U.S., making up six percent of the total student body. Recognizing this, we proudly award a Michelson Spark Grant to Swipe Out Hunger who, over the next year, will develop a toolkit and virtual training to help campuses support international students navigating food insecurity.

How Swipe Out Hunger’s Toolkit Empowers Campuses to Support International Students

This Spark Grant will create a comprehensive toolkit outlining the international student experience and best practices. The toolkit is particularly needed because international students cannot receive most U.S.-based public benefits. Swipe Out Hunger will also offer monthly educational panel discussions, called Swipe Sessions. These sessions will feature staff and students, who will share insights and real-world examples from campuses across the country. By the end of the year, more than 860 campuses, administrators, and advocates will have access to the knowledge and resources to help international students meet their basic needs.

Addressing the Growing Need for Targeted Support for International Students

Swipe Out Hunger’s data shows that international students are 14% of the students who use their on-campus food resources. This project responds to the growing demand for support of international students, who face unique barriers to obtaining their next meal. “Many campuses see firsthand how crucial it is to address the needs of international students,” said Dr. Queena Hoang, Senior Program Manager for Student Basic Needs. “This toolkit will equip institutions to meet those needs effectively, fostering a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.”

The project will also aid other student groups who cannot access public benefits. These students include undocumented students as well as those with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)mented/Dreamers status. The toolkit will help campuses provide a wider range of services and resources to students who are often left behind by traditional aid systems. In doing so, Swipe Out Hunger will directly help thousands of students across the country.

How Swipe Out Hunger Leads the Way in Food Insecurity Solutions

With years of experience working directly with students and administrators, Swipe Out Hunger has built a robust network of nearly 1,000 campuses. This national network allows the organization to identify the emerging needs of students and tailor impactful solutions. Through its Student Advisory and Leadership Council, Swipe Out Hunger ensures that student voices are at the heart of its initiatives.

“Food insecurity doesn’t discriminate. It affects students from all backgrounds, including international students who fall through traditional aid systems,” Dr. Hoang shared. “This project empowers campus leaders to address gaps and ensure all students, regardless of status, have the resources they need to succeed.” By improving support systems, Swipe Out Hunger is setting a precedent for campus communities to rethink how they address basic needs.

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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Indigenous Justice Receives Smart Justice Spark Grant to Expand Decarceration Efforts

The Michelson 20MM Foundation awarded Indigenous Justice a Smart Justice Spark Grant. Indigenous Justice seeks to end the centuries-long cycle of incarceration for Indigenous people. They also address the trauma of the boarding school-to-prison pipeline. Indigenous Justice is committed to raising awareness and advancing decarceration while promoting Indigenous rights and community healing. “The Michelson 20MM Foundation is proud to support Indigenous Justice and their innovative Returning Relatives program,” Kenia Miranda Verdugo, Smart Justice Program Manager shared. “By blending traditional Indigenous practices with modern reintegration strategies, this program offers a unique solution to the systemic challenges facing Native communities and provides a pathway for healing and decarceration.”

Why Now? The Importance of Serving Native Communities

As the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s (CDCR) continues to experience budget cuts, Tribal leaders anticipate more community members will be released in the coming years. This de-investment in carceral practices simultaneously emphasizes the need to ensure formerly incarcerated individuals can successfully reintegrate into their tribes.

Additionally, Indigenous Justice’s approach acknowledges the history of forced assimilation through boarding schools. Dating back to the late 19th century, indigenous people were often placed in boarding schools to assimilate with Eurocentric values and culture. While they were stripped of their Tribal values and practices, many indigenous children suffered significant trauma in the boarding schools. The struggles to re-join their communities as they returned home from school and continued marginalization in society are linked to the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in prisons. Indigenous Justice recognizes that restorative efforts must address these generational wounds while supporting community healing.

Innovative Solutions for Decarceration in Tribal Communities

The Returning Relatives program blends traditional Indigenous cultural practices with modern reentry support services to break the cycle of incarceration. The program integrates ancestral knowledge with contemporary strategies. It provides a holistic solution to the systemic challenges facing Native communities.

Returning Relatives differs from traditional reentry programs. It involves the entire family in healing-centered, culturally rooted care. This inside-out approach helps participants reconnect with their cultural roots while addressing key issues such as recidivism, reentry barriers, and systemic inequities.

Key elements of the program include family cultural camps, mentorship from Indigenous leaders, and long-term reintegration support. These components help participants heal from intergenerational trauma, foster resilience, and strengthen community ties. They create a transformative pathway for individuals and communities to break cycles of harm and reduce incarceration rates.

Scalability and Impact

Indigenous Justice designed the Returning Relatives program to be adaptable and scalable, with the potential to serve Indigenous communities across various regions. Through partnerships with local tribal leaders and community organizers, the program ensures that decarceration is grounded in Indigenous knowledge and community-driven solutions. It also offers a replicable model that can be expanded to other Native American communities facing similar challenges.

In 2025, Indigenous Justice expects Returning Relatives will impact 60-100 individuals and their families, with the goal of supporting the return of 10-15 incarcerated relatives to their communities. To maximize the impact, they will work with Native American Spiritual Leaders of California (NASLOC), Pit River Tribe, and Native Sisters Circle, Native Dads Network, and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. With the Smart Justice Spark Grant, Indigenous Justice will expand the program. They will reach tribal and intertribal communities across the State To implement broader decarceration efforts.

A Model for National Reform

“As we look to the future, the need for culturally rooted decarceration solutions has never been more critical,” Kenia said. “The Returning Relatives program not only helps reduce recidivism but also empowers Native communities to break the cycles of incarceration and trauma.”

The program offers a culturally specific reentry model that addresses the unique challenges faced by Native American individuals. By prioritizing alternatives to incarceration rooted in cultural practices, the program challenges traditional reentry models and sets a new standard for justice reform. It not only focuses on reducing recidivism but also addresses the root causes of mass incarceration through community healing and cultural empowerment.

Additionally, Returning Relatives influences public policy by training Indigenous leaders to advocate for systemic changes at local, state, and national levels. Its success contributes to the national conversation about ending mass incarceration for Indigenous and marginalized communities. It sets a precedent for justice reforms rooted in healing, cultural practices, and community-driven approaches.

Through its innovative, holistic approach, the Returning Relatives program offers a blueprint for reducing incarceration rates—promoting lasting, culturally grounded justice reform.

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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California Competes: Tackling Student Insecurity with a Holistic, Data-Driven Approach

California Competes: Higher Education for a Strong Economy has been awarded a Spark Grant to help address the growing issue of student basic needs insecurity in California’s colleges and universities. Their project integrates education, workforce development, and a systems approach to streamline access to crucial resources including CalFresh and Medi-Cal. By using data-driven insights and fostering cross-sector collaboration, the project will directly benefit students, particularly those from low-income and underserved communities.

“This initiative represents a shift in how public services are delivered to students,” Dr. Queena Hoang, Senior Program Manager for Student Basic Needs at the Michelson 20MM Foundation said. “It will remove barriers and allow students to focus on their education rather than navigate complex systems.”

Addressing Barriers to Public Benefits Access

The Linking Benefits and Data to Support the Whole Student project is crucial for students facing food insecurity. It aims to take on the barriers preventing an estimated 400,000–700,000 eligible students from accessing CalFresh. The barriers include complex application processes, siloed systems, and a lack of awareness. To do so, California Competes will engage key stakeholders to create student-centered solutions that improve access and reduce administrative burdens.

A Scalable and Replicable Model

The project’s vision for the use of the Cradle-to-Career (C2C) Data System provides a foundation for future success. California Competes’ work addresses challenges experienced across the state. By focusing on the data system and integrating state-wide public benefits information, they will provide actionable insights for policymakers and higher education institutions. This approach not only benefits California students but also sets a replicable model for other states to follow.

“This systems-level approach can help ensure that no student is left behind due to bureaucratic hurdles,” Dr. Hoang shared. “Once California sets the standard for a holistic, cross-system model, other states will be able to leverage this real-time, equity based data, decision making approach.”

Coalition Building for Systemic Change

As part of this initiative, California Competes will establish a coalition to advocate for policy changes that streamline public benefits access. This coalition will bring together policymakers, student advocacy groups, and public benefits administrators. Together they will reduce inefficiencies, enhance collaboration, and promote systemic change in how public services are delivered to students.

The coalition will advocate for policies such as categorical eligibility, automatic enrollment, and the integration of public benefits data into the Cradle-to-Career Data (C2C) system. These efforts have the potential to improve access to resources for students statewide and could become a model for other regions.

A Three-Phased Approach to Holistic Student Support

Linking Benefits and Data to Support the Whole Student will be characterized by three key main efforts:

Landscape Analysis: A thorough examination of public benefits access for students, identifying barriers and opportunities.
Coalition Formation: The creation of a plan to launch a coalition and engage key stakeholders in an advisory board.
Data Integration: A comprehensive review of the C2C Data System, focusing on identifying gaps and integrating the data elements needed to understand student basic needs.

Advocacy, Policy Impact, and the Long-Term Standard

By streamlining enrollment processes, automatic eligibility determination, and integrating public benefits data, the project will support evidence-based policymaking that promotes student success. California Competes will work closely with the coalition to advocate for legislative changes and secure funding to ensure long-term sustainability. These efforts will aim to create a more inclusive infrastructure for students, supporting economic mobility and workforce readiness statewide.

By leveraging partnerships, data, and student voices, California Competes is setting a new standard for how public benefits and higher education systems can work together to improve student outcomes.

About the Michelson 20MM Foundation

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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Nourishing Minds: The Vital Role of CalFresh Benefits in Supporting College Students

By Dr. Queena Hoang

March is National Nutrition Month, a time to highlight healthy eating’s critical role in our lives. For college students, nutrition isn’t just sustenance—it fuels the mind for academic success and bodily well-being. Food insecurity—defined as limited or uncertain access to adequate food—plagues many college students. It makes nutritious meals harder to access. A new study by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research (CHPR) found:

50% of surveyed California college students experienced food insecurity, including 28% who skipped meals due to cost.
Over 70% of students at California community colleges reported food insecurity, followed by >50% of Cal State students and 42% of UC students.
Among food-insecure students who heard of CalFresh but never used it, the main reasons were believing they were ineligible (50.3%), not knowing how to apply (27.8%), and lacking time to apply (14.4%).

Food Insecurity on College Campuses

Not only during National Nutrition Month but also throughout the year, food insecurity—the lack of consistent access to healthy foods—has impacted college campuses for years. Recently it has worsened due to rising prices. Good nutrition may be affordable for some, but healthy choices come at a hefty price for others. UCLA also found that hunger and food insecurity are significantly higher among college students (44%) than U.S. households (13%). Stress over not knowing where their next meal will come from can lead to poor academic performance. It can also cause increased mental health issues, and the tough choice between food and a college degree. Without proper nutrition, students struggle to concentrate, retain information, and sustain the energy to succeed.

The Importance of SNAP Benefits

CalFresh, California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity. It provides monthly electronic benefits to low-income households to purchase food. CalFresh benefits help students buy fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other essentials for a balanced diet. By easing grocery expenses, CalFresh enables students to focus on their studies instead of their next meal.

California has worked to help more eligible students receive CalFresh, such as by funding Basic Needs Centers for sign-up. However, efforts are hampered by a lack of understanding about eligibility and participation. Researchers from the California Policy Lab found that among students who were estimated to be eligible for CalFresh benefits, 26% of community college students received CalFresh benefits in the Fall of 2019. That is compared to 22% of UC undergraduate students and 27% of UC graduate students. This means about 100,600 students received CalFresh benefits, while an estimated 297,400 eligible students missed out on benefits, based on the California Policy Lab’s research.

Advocacy and Awareness

In the last few years, California has provided funding for county human services agency liaisons to increase campus-county collaboration (Assembly Bill 1326). The state has also required colleges to provide information on CalFresh as part of their new student orientation (AB 543). Additionally, there is a mandate for a uniform template for colleges to use to notify students of their eligibility for CalFresh (SB 20). The state has also funded basic needs centers at community colleges (SB 129) and expanded the set of programs that count toward the “local programs to increase employability” exemption (AB 396), as the California Policy Labs reported.

Despite the benefits and efforts, many eligible students remain unaware of CalFresh or hesitant to apply due to stigma or the belief that others are more in need. Higher education and community organizations can raise awareness, simplifying the application process, and advocate for policies that expand eligibility. Campus food pantries, nutrition workshops, and peer support programs can complement CalFresh benefits, creating a holistic approach to food insecurity.

This National Nutrition Month, let’s commit to ensuring all students have access to the nutrition they need to succeed. Supporting CalFresh and other food security initiatives invests in the future of our communities—one well-nourished mind at a time.

About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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Little Black Dress and OER: Sticking with the Classics Doesn’t Go Out of Fashion

LBD and OER: Sticking with the classics doesn’t go out of fashion

By Cailyn Nagle

Just like the Little Black Dress (LBD), which has been a wardrobe essential for decades, foundational strategies in the open educational resources (OER) community are equally timeless and effective. While the silhouette, material, and styling has shifted with eras, the Little Black Dress remains a wardrobe-building keystone. Shifting from a conference presentation to an event gala context requires swapping out shoes and accessories, the LBD allows effortless transitions between day and night. As technology, governments, and society shifted the LBD remained. Sometimes, the classics are classics for a reason. Sometimes there’s nothing wrong with returning to a time-trusted foundational piece.

Factors Contributing to the Decrease in OER Awareness

For the first time since Bay View analytics began reporting on OER awareness, fewer faculty knew about or used OER materials. The dip was small, but it marked a change in an over a decade-long trend. Contributing factors include administrators taking control of materials assigned in courses. In the past, Bay View has reported on the increasing number of administrators who are playing a larger role in deciding which course materials will be used. Another factor is the increasing prevalence of automatic textbook billing. Advocates and practitioners should push against these factors, but they are long-term battles. We can also make daily impacts through the choices and tactics we use in our programs. Like the LBD, the OER community can revisit and refresh some of the trusted basics.

Recruitment: An Eternal Effort

As a community organizer, I learned another acronym: ABC or Always Be (re)Cruiting. Due to natural attrition, the volunteer pool would eventually dry up without a steady flow of new people. Along with dedicated recruitment drives throughout the year, recruitment was also an ongoing process. We cast a wide net with strong marketing and outreach, including follow-up and onboarding year-round, and incorporating recruitment across all activities.

Ways to Increase OER Capacity and Resources

OER community, bandwidth, capacity, and resources often limit the ability to incorporate these strategies. Not every OER program has the capacity to knock on the faculty doors, hold one-on-one conversations, or access customizable OER marketing materials. There is no quick fix for capacity, but the Michelson 20MM Foundation has included the creation of marketing and outreach materials in this year’s OER Spark Grant focus areas. We hope grants will provide the resources programs need to create and share those materials.

Consistent new members means organizing creates engaging experiences for long-time volunteers while welcoming and orienting newcomers. Volunteer activities, from door knocking to panel events, begin with a baseline explanation of goals and training. New attendees can follow along, even if 90% of the crowd are experienced volunteers. Some OER events and conferences have stepped back from strong 101 programming in favor of advanced conversations on pedagogy, deep research, and other fascinating topics. Deeper engagement is needed, but our community must also extend a ladder to new members. These new OER-curious practitioners need to build the knowledge base that strengthens our movement.

Understanding What Motivates the OER Community

What are axioms but the reiteration of a classic concept into a memorable phrase? In “Axioms of Organizers,” community organizer Fred Ross Sr. quipped: “It’s the way people are that matters, not the way you’d like them to be.” In the OER world, community members often share what inspires and motivates them about open education. For some, it’s creating culturally responsive materials. For others, it’s the blurring of the lines between student and educator through the active knowledge creation of open pedagogy. For others, it is the global collaboration OER enables.

These are strong motivators, but when growing our movement, we must focus the messaging on what motivates the gatekeepers of policies and resources. A recent report from Ithaka’s Dr Ioana Hulbert, Deirdre Harkins, and Dr. Mark McBride, “Charting the Course-Case Studies in OER Sustainability,” offers insights on how OER programs can build, thrive, and survive. One key finding speaks to Ross’ axiom, “OER initiatives flourish when they align with institutional priorities and are framed as a tool that can address several goals beyond affordability, such as advancing equity, access, or instructional innovation.”

This often means identifying existing priorities for institutional leaders and tailoring OER messaging to what speaks most clearly to them. This concept holds true beyond courting administrators focused on completion rates or legislators concerned with student savings. The OER community must strategically shift focus to recruit and build the movement—from student government leaders to bookstore managers to department heads.

A Timeless Reminder to Step Back and Focus on Our Goals

Truth be told, I have six little black dresses. They include a gold beaded one from the 1980s with a matching bolero jacket, a simple eyelet one from the Gap, and an A-line beatnik with pink trimming from the 1960s. Basics are meant to be built upon and improved, but we never truly move past them. When unsure of my next steps, I step back, focus on my goals, and remember my three-letter fundamentals.

About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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The Spark Community Advisors: Championing Open Educational Resources in 2025

Open Educational Resources (OER) provide equitable access to learning materials, empowering both students and educators. By reducing the financial burden of expensive textbooks, OER fosters a more inclusive educational environment. They can help ensure that all students, regardless of financial background, have access to high-quality learning resources.

The 2025 OER Michelson Spark Grants funding cycle furthers these positive impacts. It does so by supporting innovative projects that scale OER implementation, build capacity, and enhance outreach.

2025 Open Educational Resources Focus Areas

In order to drive a scalable impact within the communities we serve, the funding cycle emphasizes the following areas:

Supporting the implementation of California’s investment in zero textbook cost (ZTC) degree programs within the California Community College (CCC) system.
Mobilizing students and faculty to pass OER policies at the University of California (UC), CCC, and California State University (CSU) systems.
Improving the quality and reach of OER marketing materials, particularly for under-resourced programs at institutions nationwide.
Researching and conducting public education around automatic textbook billing, with a focus on student experience and consumer protection.
Investigating the impacts of policies relating to textbook accessibility, OER, and textbook price transparency at the state and federal level.

Meet the Spark Community Advisors

The Michelson 20MM Foundation believes that those closest to the issues we’re working on understand a community’s needs best and are closest to the solution. With this in mind, we are proud to introduce a remarkable group of advisors whose expertise will shape strategies that promote equity, support vulnerable populations, and drive innovative approaches to improving OER.

Elaine Correa, Ph.D | Professor and Chair, California State University, Bakersfield, Department of Human Development, and Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies

Dr. Elaine Correa earned her Ph.D. in Administration and Policy Studies in Education from McGill University, Montreal, Canada. She joined California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) in Fall 2016. Dr. Correa serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Human Development, and Child, Adolescent, and Family Studies. In 2019-2020, she was Interim Associate Dean for the School of Social Sciences and Education. Dr. Correa participates in shared governance on the Academic Senate. She serves on the Academic Support and Student Services Sub-Committee.

In Fall 2023, Dr. Correa spearheaded CSUB’s first OER degree. Her department received recognition from the Chancellor’s Office as one of three CSUs to offer an OER degree program. This initiative addresses equity gaps and increases graduation rates.

Dr. Correa advocates for social justice and community engagement. Her research and work focuses on educational equity, OER/OEP, multiculturalism, feminist pedagogy, e-learning, and service learning.

Paola Santana (she/her/Ella) | Executive Director, Glendale College Foundation

Paola Santana is the Executive Director of the Glendale College Foundation. There, she builds public awareness and collaborates with a 34-member board. Together they raise funds for student scholarships, college programs, and other critical needs.

Previously, Santana served as a Strategy Officer and Grant Maker at Lumina Foundation. In her role, she supported state efforts to increase postsecondary attainment across the nation. Santana also led UNITE-LA’s college access and success portfolio for nearly a decade. She implemented direct service college access programming and developed the organization’s higher education policy advocacy agenda. Santana began her career advising the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education on complex policy issues.

She is a graduate of several leadership programs, including the Riordan Leadership Institute and the Pahara NextGen Network. A first-generation, community college transfer student, Santana earned her associate degree at Glendale Community College, baccalaureate degree at the UC, Berkeley, and Master’s in Higher Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Katie Wagman (she/her) | Senior, University of California, Los Angeles

Katie Wagman is a fourth-year undergraduate at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), studying public affairs. She is a Policy Intern with EveryLife Foundation for Rare Disease and as a Housing/Communications Policy Intern at Strategic Actions for a Just Economy (SAJE).

Previously, Wagman was a Student Fellow for Michelson 20MM’s Textbook Affordability initiative. She worked to ensure students have equitable access to the course materials. She continues this work as the Director of Access and Equity for the undergraduate Academic Affairs Commission. In her role, Wagman is advancing textbook affordability through the UC system and implementing course marking and price transparency at UCLA. Nationally, she advocated for policy changes in the Department of Education.

Upon graduation, Wagman plans to work in housing or healthcare policy, with a particular interest in reproductive healthcare.

This Michelson Spark Grants funding cycle plays a crucial role in driving OER adoption. It empowers communities to overcome barriers to education through affordable learning materials. Together, we can continue creating an equitable educational landscape for students and educators alike.

About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

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Creating a Unified Network for Systems-Impacted Students: The Transfer Coalition Initiative

The Michelson 20MM Foundation proudly supports the Torero Urban Scholars’ (TUS) new Transfer Coalition Initiative (TCI) through a 2024 Smart Justice Spark Grant. Their innovative project aims to break down barriers to higher education for systems-impacted individuals, creating a cohesive regional network of support for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated learners.

A Collaborative, Unified Approach to Reentry Education

The TCI is transforming reentry education with a unified, collaborative approach. Historically, reentry education efforts have been fragmented, with limited connections between correctional facilities, higher education institutions, and community resources. TCI addresses this challenge by creating a formalized, unified network connecting key players, ensuring students receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive academically.

“The Transfer Coalition Initiative is about more than access to education; it’s about creating a sustainable, interconnected system of support for students at every stage of their journey,” said Kenia Miranda Vergudo, Smart Justice Program Manager. “By building partnerships between correctional facilities, colleges, and community organizations, TCI sets a new standard for what reentry education can and should be.”

Building a Pathway to Higher Education

TCI’s reach extends beyond the classroom, recognizing that system-impacted students face multiple challenges–housing instability, social stigma, and the need for mentorship to name a few. By providing wraparound services such as academic advising and housing support, TCI ensures that students can focus on their studies without the added stress of navigating these barriers alone.

The key to TCI’s program is its emphasis on fostering a sense of community. Through events such as resource fairs, networking opportunities, and campus tabling at both correctional facilities and local colleges, TCI helps students build connections with peers and mentors who share their experiences. This community-building approach is essential for long-term success, as it helps reduce stigma and create a support network of like-minded individuals.

A Regional Network with National Potential

What sets TCI apart is its potential for scalability and focus on early intervention with youth. The initiative builds on the successful collaboration between 12 higher education reentry programs in San Diego County, including the University of California, San Diego’s Underground Scholars, San Diego State University’s Project Rebound, and the Rising Scholars Network. By creating a regional coalition, TCI is establishing a model that can be replicated across other areas of California and, eventually, nationwide.

“The impact of TCI will be transformative,” Kenia shared. “As this model grows, it can influence broader policy changes that remove barriers to higher education for justice-impacted individuals. This is an opportunity to reshape how our society supports those who have been incarcerated, moving from punitive to restorative and preventative practices.”

Leveraging Technology for Greater Reach

To amplify its impact, TCI is developing a regional online toolkit. The digital resource hub will offer essential tools, best practices, and information. Available to both students and educators, the hub will facilitate collaboration and ensure participants are equipped with the knowledge to succeed. The toolkit will also allow for easy sharing of resources and strategies, making it possible to scale TCI’s impact beyond San Diego.

Fostering Long-Term Impact on Social Mobility

TCI’s long-term goal is to help system-impacted individuals achieve social mobility through higher education. Students consistently show that educational access significantly reduces recidivism rates and promotes successful reintegration. By expanding access to college programs, TCI provides students with the tools needed to build successful futures. We are proud to support their bold approach to reentry education, one that combines innovation, collaboration, and equity.

About Michelson 20MM

Michelson 20MM is a private, nonprofit foundation working toward equity for underserved and historically underrepresented communities by expanding access to educational and employment opportunities, increasing affordability of educational programs, and ensuring the necessary supports are in place for individuals to thrive. To do so, we work in the following verticals: Digital Equity, Intellectual Property, Smart Justice, Student Basic Needs, and Open Educational Resources (OER). Co-chaired and funded by Alya and Gary Michelson, Michelson 20MM is part of the Michelson Philanthropies network of foundations.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here.