Empowering Youth with Education: The California Justice Leaders Postsecondary Pathways Program

Michelson 20MM is proud to continue supporting Impact Justice’s important work in the smart justice space by awarding them a 2024 Michelson Spark Grant. Through the Spark Grant, they will create pathways to higher education for justice-involved youth. The grant will fund the launch of the California Justice Leaders Postsecondary Pathways Program (CJLP3), a new initiative that builds on our prior investment in their California Justice Leaders (CJL) program and takes it to new heights by directly addressing the needs of young people incarcerated or recently released. 

Building on a Strong Foundation: The CJL Program

In 2019, funded in part by a Spark Grant, Impact Justice launched the CJL program, an AmeriCorps initiative designed to serve justice-impacted young adults. Through the program, CJL members—credible messengers who have lived experience with the justice system—work as reentry navigators in nonprofit organizations, providing mentorship, advocacy, and direct support to those who are currently and formerly incarcerated.

Five years later, CJL has grown into a powerful network of over 100 members. “Seeing the California Justice Leaders program continue to grow since Michelson 20MM’s initial investment has demonstrated the power of their community-based model,” Kenia Miranda Verdugo, Smart Justice Program Manager shared. “As CJL continues to scale, it’s clear that the next logical step is expanding into educational access for budding minds. That’s where the Postsecondary Pathways Program (CJLP3) comes into play.”

Expanding Access to Higher Education: The CJLP3 Initiative

The new CJLP3 program addresses a critical gap for youth involved in the justice system. CJLP3 focuses on “secure track” youth, up to age 25, who are incarcerated or recently released and facing extended sentences for serious offenses. The program helps juvenile judges and other justice-system actors leverage educational opportunities as sentencing solutions.

“By ensuring that educational success is recognized by the justice system, we open the door for young people to reintegrate into society as educated, skilled individuals who can successfully reintegrate into their communities,” Kenia reflected. 

What Makes CJLP3 Innovative?

  1. Create Bridges Between Education and Justice Systems: CJLP3 recognizes the discretion juvenile justice judges have when it comes to the future of incarcerated youth. They can even consider rehabilitation and education as forms of sentence relief. By fostering communication between judges, other court officials, and higher educational institutions, CJLP3 will ensure that the educational progress of incarcerated youth is safeguarded.
  2. Scale a Proven Model: Building on the success of the Laney College’s Restoring our Communities (ROC) model in Alameda County, CJLP3 will scale the effort statewide. By embedding these practices within CJL’s network of over 60 members, the program can help hundreds of young people navigate the complexities of higher education while incarcerated and during reentry.
  3. Conduct a Landscape Analysis: The CJLP3 Program Manager will conduct a landscape analysis of the judges, institutions for higher education, and detention facilities in the counties where CJL members currently operate. This will be used to empower members as they begin developing professional working relationships with these institutions. 

Leveraging Previous Success for Greater Impact

Michelson 20MM is excited to continue our partnership with Impact Justice. We are confident that this new program will further advance equitable opportunities for those impacted by the justice system. 

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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Advancing Digital Equity, Fighting Discrimination, and Expanding Broadband in California

Cristal Mojica (left) speaking on California’s broadband for all priorities during the Broadband Communities West Summit

By Cristal Mojica

As the year ends we reflect on the progress made in digital equity and broadband for all, and the challenges ahead. 

Digital Equity State and Local Policy

The Michelson 20MM team at the Digital Equity Advocacy Day in Sacramento

2024 was a milestone year for our local and state digital equity coalitions. Together, we hosted our largest Digital Equity Advocacy Day in Sacramento. Over 40 digital equity stakeholders met at the Capitol in April to discuss priorities with 20+ legislators. They also gave critical testimonies on digital discrimination in an Assembly committee hearing.

Michelson 20MM Foundation joined the statewide digital discrimination campaign, educating leaders on the need to protect residents from digital discrimination. We advocated for updating California’s Civil Rights Code to make digital discrimination illegal. This will prevent that form of intentional or unintentional discrimination from exacerbating the digital divide.

In 2025, we will call for state-level digital discrimination protections and support local educational initiatives. These efforts will educate the public on identifying and reporting discrimination.

Grantmaking for Community Solutions

In 2024, we prioritized supporting community broadband projects through Michelson Spark Grants. Community organizations working in the Pico-Union and Crenshaw districts of Los Angeles have since secured millions in state funding and are now entering the implementation phase. We also partnered with City Heights CDC (San Diego) to support their broadband development strategic plan. This will ensure that San Diego has representation in statewide digital equity advocacy efforts. 

In 2025, we expect to continue expanding our statewide partnerships in the Bay Area, Central Valley, San Diego and Imperial Counties, and beyond.

Digital Equity and AI

A panel at the at CalMatters Ideas Festival discusses what California is doing to hold AI accountable

Conversations with funders, educators, administrators, policymakers, and technologists on the impact of AI on digital equity inspired us. We also partnered with SoCal Grantmakers and Education-Trust West and are grateful for their support. In 2025, we look forward to continuing to center community and educator voices as AI policy is developed at the local and state level.

2025 and Beyond

We are proud of California’s continued leadership in digital equity advocacy and are ready to grow our impact in 2025 and beyond. 

Michelson 20MM Foundation’s 2025 digital equity policy priorities, in alignment with the California Alliance for Digital Equity, will include:

  • Advocating for broadband affordability measures in CA
  • Reinforcing digital discrimination protections
  • Ending anti-competitive practices in CA
  • Preserving California’s infrastructure dollars 

At the Federal level, the new administration picked Commissioner Brendan Carr to lead the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). He authored the chapter on the FCC in Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation’s policy guide for a second Trump term. Commissioner Carr’s troubling statement after being named Chair included a declaration that the Commission will “end its promotion of DEI.” Michelson 20MM is ready to defend digital equity in California and remain committed to the communities and partnerships that make it possible. 

Next year is critical for digital equity. We must renew our collective commitment to equity and protect our California values. We look forward to working with our coalition peers, legislators, community leaders, and broader philanthropy to protect our citizens and continue the fight for broadband for all. 

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.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

Empowering Parenting Students: Building Belonging and Support at California’s CSUs

By Evelyn Lucho

Students of color at four-year institutions often feel less of a sense of belonging on campus. In California, the K-12 Healthy Kids Survey found Black students are more than twice as likely as white peers to report low school connectedness. Additionally, Black parents make up a disproportionate share of the parenting student population, highlighting the urgent need to address their experiences and sense of belonging. 

Understanding this, on December 12th, the Michelson 20MM Foundation hosted “The State of Pregnant and Parenting Students in California: Fostering a Sense of Belonging at CSUs.” Isaac Alferos, Melissa Valenzuela-Stookey, and Maya Valree of EdTrust-West previewed key findings from their “Sense of Belonging” survey, while Jordan Calley added her perspective as a student parent.

What Is Belonging, and Why Is It Important? 

The webinar explored the sense of belonging among parenting students, examining whether they feel integral parts of their campus identity. Research from EdTrust West emphasized the benefits of fostering belonging, including how being a parent strengthens students. Parenting students reported better time management, self-determination, a desire to be role models for their children, and increased motivation—all leading to better academic outcomes.

“There was a very clear articulation of skills and competencies that help someone thrive in a college environment, being gained and built upon because they are a parent,” said Melissa Valenzuela-Stookey, director of P-16 research at EdTrust-West.

The data also revealed how well parenting students’ needs are being met and identified gaps that institutions can address. Nearly three in four respondents felt included on campus, but the picture shifted when focusing on their identity as student parents. Over half felt uncertain about belonging, and nearly half felt they did not fit in when considering their role as student parents. These findings highlight the need to address the unique challenges parenting students face to support their success.

The study also examined how parenting students access information about resources and policies to support their success and belonging. Respondents most often cited the need for clearer, more accessible resources. Less than half could easily find information about support for student parents, revealing a significant gap in awareness.

The findings showed most parenting students were unaware of campus resources like priority access, financial assistance, off-campus childcare, and parenting classes. This disconnect can isolate parenting students and undermine their sense of belonging on campus. When students can’t easily access resources meant to support them, it sends the message that their needs are unprioritized, making it harder to feel valued on campus. Improving the visibility and accessibility of information is crucial to fostering a stronger sense of belonging and ensuring parenting students receive the support they need to thrive. 

How Can We Support Parenting Students?

Creating supportive policies and resources is key to fostering parenting students’ sense of belonging on campus. Respondents emphasized that clear policies regarding minors on campus are essential to eliminate ambiguity for students, staff, and faculty. Student parents recommend adding a family-friendly syllabus statement to help parenting students feel acknowledged and valued. 

“A sense of belonging (to me) means that I’m allowed to show up every day as my authentic self and embrace my role and identity as a parent, and those experiences, without feeling othered or judged… It also means acknowledging that student parents exist and that our participation on campus is welcome and valid,” said Jordan Calley, a student parent at San Francisco State University.

State policymakers must prioritize and allocate funds to develop or expand family-friendly spaces and resources on campuses. These resources include childcare centers, family resource centers, lactation spaces, changing tables, and 24-hour family-friendly study rooms.

As emphasized during the discussion, “those closest to the issues intuitively know the solutions.” Centering policies and practices on parenting students’ voices and experiences is key to bridging gaps in support, affirming their place within the campus community, and strengthening their sense of belonging.

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.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

Advancing Smart Justice Solutions: A Year of Impact

By Kenia Miranda Verdugo

As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on the progress made towards a more equitable, data-driven criminal justice system. This year, the Michelson 20MM Foundation made remarkable progress.  We created and expanded pathways to educational attainment, employment, and economic opportunities. Throughout this, we remained committed to fairness, innovation, and opportunity. Our bold steps implemented smart justice solutions that have impacted communities, policymakers, and the broader justice reform movement.

Celebrating Two Cycles of Spark Grantees

This calendar year featured two Smart Justice Spark Grants cycles. 

The 2023 Spark Grantees—Homeboy Industries, Cal State LA, and UCR LIFTED—launched several impactful projects. 

  • –Homeboy Industries hosted an educational summit, creating a community of learning. During the summit, they shared their proven structured framework for the Pathways to College model. This framework allowed attending organizations to replicate and tailor the program for their communities. 
  • –Project Rebound at California State University, Los Angeles, expanded the Career Equity Pathways project into the California Institute for Women (CIW). The program provides face-to-face leadership and career training to currently and formerly incarcerated students.
  • –The University of California Riverside (UCR) built upon the success of UC Irvine’s LIFTED program by offering their own Bachelor of Arts (BA) pathway. They will create materials for any California State University (CSU) or UC campus that would like to provide a BA pathway in prison. A series of animated videos will support the transfer and admission process. These videos will be available online and in the education room at California state prisons for students to check out. 

We recently concluded the 2024 Spark Grant cycle and were pleased to welcome the 2024 Spark Grantees: the Healing & Justice Center, Impact Justice, Indigenous Justice, and Torero Urban Scholar’s Transfer Coalition Initiative. This cycle will fund several important projects that:

  • -Support mothers reentering society. This year-long pilot program will offer compassionate parenting strategies, support groups, and emotional wellness resources to help mothers strengthen their bonds with their children. 
  • -Work with judges, higher education institutions, and detention facilities in 10 counties, helping youth access educational opportunities while navigating the juvenile justice system. 
  • -Serve 14 tribes and reduce multi-generational recidivism. This will be done by providing culturally specific services and training Indigenous leaders to advocate for alternatives to incarceration.
  • -Support youth transitioning from juvenile incarceration to college. This will create a unified system for reentry education in San Diego, connecting higher education institutions, correctional facilities, and community services. 

Forming Career Pathways, Investing in Communities, and Recognizing the Success of Incarcerated Students

Los Angeles County Training Center Fire Camp’s first cohort of justice-impacted firefighters from FFRP
Los Angeles County Training Center Fire Camp’s first cohort of justice-impacted firefighters from FFRP

In March, we attended our partner, the Forestry and Fire Recruitment Program’s (FFRP’s) ribbon cutting. This new program prepares system-impacted individuals, including transitional youth, for careers in the fire service throughout LA County.

In April, we attended a funders’ convening in Fresno. There, we learned about the needs and scarce resources in the Central Valley. This region is often overlooked and has had a history of a prison ecosystem, which ultimately allowed for tough-on-crime policies and high policing throughout the region. 

UCI LIFTED students celebrate graduation
UCI LIFTED students celebrate graduation

Our partner, UCI LIFTED, celebrated their first graduation, graduating 23 incarcerated students. They also created a peer mentorship program through which Underground Scholars students at UC Irvine mentor the UCI LIFTED students. This program has had a significant impact. LIFTED students see themselves beyond the carceral institutions as students who belong on campus and have a network of empathetic mentors.

Continuing a Culture of Learning and Best Practices

This year, we expanded on the Pathways From Prison to College In Action series. We highlighted organizations across the state doing great work aligned with California’s Best Practices: Pathways From Prison to College. We also hosted webinars that highlighted learnings from Homeboy Industries, learnings from UC Bachelor programs, organizations in the Central Valley, and organizations that support incarcerated women.

Supporting Incarcerated Women: Addressing Their Unique Challenges and Building Pathways to Reentry
Formerly incarcerated panelists join us to share resources for incarcerated women

Our sister foundation, the Michelson Center for Public Policy, celebrated a legislative win this year. They joined the Gate Money Coalition, including Root & Rebound, Initiate Justice, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children, and All of Us or None. The coalition advocated for shifting clothing and transportation costs onto CDCR, allowing incarcerated individuals to keep their entire gate money amount. Senator Becker championed this budget effort, we are grateful for his leadership as this effort was successful in securing $1.8 million for clothing and transportation costs.

None of the success would be possible without our partners, grantees, and advocates. Thank you to the hundreds of individuals who joined our fight for a smarter, fairer, and more just justice system. Together, we’ve shown that working with data, compassion, and evidence-based policies leads to transformative changes.

As we close 2024, we feel gratitude and optimism towards the work ahead. The momentum is building, and we are just getting started.

Together, we will continue pushing for justice that serves everyone.

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.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

Transforming Education Through Open: A Year of Impact

By Cailyn Nagle

As in previous years, the Open Educational Resources (OER) initiative focused on ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed, free from high course material costs. In 2024, we supported the rollout of Governor Newsom’s $115 million investment in Zero Textbook Cost degrees, worked to protect students within the textbook marketplace, and remained committed to building a higher education system where every student has what they need to thrive.   

Conducting Surveys and Original Research  

understanding the student experience report cover

In line with the push to incorporate student feedback and perspectives, the OER program produced a survey on students’ experiences with automatic textbook billing. More than half of students, consistent with surveys from other organizations, felt that automatic textbook billing programs cost more than they saved. 

The survey found that most students remained in automatic billing programs because it was the quickest option and they didn’t know where to buy materials outside of the program. One student said, “It felt like more hassle to opt out than to pay out of pocket.” The survey also found that only one in 10 students prefer automatic billing, while over 40% prefer to find materials from off-campus sources. 

This survey aimed to start a conversation and invite further research on student preference. It also encouraged institutions to pause before enrolling students in programs to which they have not consented. 

Expanding the Student Fellows Program

Michelson 20MM Student Fellows present their work at OpenEd 2024
Michelson 20MM Student Fellows present their work at OpenEd 2024

Students continued to be the driving force behind the Michelson 20MM OER program. Building on the success of last year’s student fellowship program, each program within the organization welcomed a student fellow this year. Throughout the course of the program, the fellows worked on a specific, student-directed project within each initiative. 

Katie Wagman, now a senior at the University of California, Los Angeles, (UCLA) remained an OER fellow. She was joined by Abba Schwartz, who transferred from Sierra College to the University of California (UC) Berkeley during the fellowship.    

As with last year, the fellowship centered on each student developing and running a local campaign focused on their program areas. Katie continued her advocacy, both on campus and nationally, to focus on student consumer protection in policies about automatic textbook billing. Katie gave public comment during the Department of Education negotiated rulemaking process and was published in the Hill. At UCLA, she worked with the library and campus bookstore to conduct a faculty survey. The survey aimed to better understand faculty views on textbook affordability initiatives and the newly expanded automatic textbook billing program. 

Abba’s project was focused on publicizing and expanding the visibility of the California Community College’s (CCC) Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) Program. Abba worked with the ZTC Technical Advisor’s office and the Academic Senate’s OER Initiative (OERI) Committee to design and launch a “Good News” portal for ZTC success stories. She also created materials for CCC Student Basic Needs offices to publicize ZTC degree options to the students.

Building Community

Mayra Lombera, Michelson 20MM’s CEO, (right) with Elaine Correa (left), who traveled from CSU Bakersfield to connect with fellow advocates. Correa self-funded t-shirts on her campus to drive awareness about the benefits of OER.

Southern California is a region rich with higher education institutions. In Los Angeles County alone, there are over 30 colleges and universities. Despite this density, OER educators often feel siloed in their work and interests. To build a stronger OER movement and community in Southern California, Michelson 20MM launched two OER gatherings. These happy hour events allowed faculty, administrators, course designers, and others to gather, network, and share success and resources. 

Our first event, Hitting the Books, was held in North Hollywood to mark the start of the term. Educators from as far away as San Diego and Bakersfield joined us for an evening of good food and community. At the start of December, we hosted “OER: The Gift that Keeps Giving,” our second happy hour of the year in Torrance. Educators took a break from preparing for finals and grading end of term essays to celebrate their hard work and spend time in community. We are excited to hold more OER Happy Hour events in 2025!

Welcoming the Spark Grant Recipients

The 2024 OER Spark Grants funding cycle focused on supporting the data and research side of the ZTC program within the CCC system and supporting student organizing at the UC system. Both Chabot College and Glendale Community College are now in the middle of their research and data collection projects, with Chabot building a data dashboard and Glendale CC focused on ZTC course marking visibility. We were also thrilled to support GenerationUP, a student-run grassroots organization, in launching a textbook affordability campaign within the UC system. 

Outside of the Spark Grant cycle, the OER program teamed up with the Michelson 20MM Smart Justice Program to jointly support the work of the Transformative Collective Institute in training CCC educators whose students are incarcerated on how to leverage OER in their unique context. Last but not least, we were excited to help support the Student PIRGs’ newest report on automatic textbook billing contracts.  

Attending Coast-to-Coast Conferences 

The OER team joined the Association of Community College Trustees National Legislative Summit
The OER team joined the Association of Community College Trustees National Legislative Summit

From Washington, D.C., to the Bay Area, the Michelson 20MM OER team had the opportunity to be in community with educators across the country. 

Starting off the year with community colleges from around the nation, we joined the Community College National Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. During the summer, we attended the CalOpen conference, where we had the opportunity to dig in on the open community in the Golden State. October took the team to New England then the Midwest, with first the Open Education Conference in Providence, Rhode Island, then to the Education Funders Conference in Minneapolis. 

OpenEd’s first hybrid conference since 2019 gave OER Fellows Abba and Katie an opportunity to uplift the work of students in the textbook accessibility space. Abba and Katie presented the work of the Michelson 20MM Student Fellows program and shared insights on how OER practitioners can work alongside students in the field. Katie then joined students from across the country in SPARC’s panel on students pushing back on the spread of automatic textbook billing. 

As 2025 approaches, we look back with gratitude on the work of partners and friends. We are also looking forward to continuing to build a world where every student has access to the materials they need to reach their goals. 

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.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

Driving Multigenerational Change for California’s Student Parents: A Year of Impact

By Dr. Queena Hoang

In 2024, the Michelson 20MM Foundation’s Student Basic Needs Initiative sought to increase persistence and graduation rates by driving systems change, conducting research, and identifying policies to support student basic needs.

As we continued the Michelson Pregnant and Parenting Student Project, a platform designed to increase support of California’s pregnant and parenting postsecondary students, we celebrated the following successes:

Highlighting the “State of Pregnant and Parenting Students in California”

A Look at the Major Strides AB 2881 Has Made for Student Parents

Assemblymember Marc Berman authored AB 2881, which Michelson 20MM’s sister organization the Michelson Center for Public Policy co-sponsored. Its passage represents major progress in serving nearly half a million student parents across California’s higher education systems. 

The bill’s author participated in our California State University (CSU) Student Parent Network to share insight on progress and implementation. Assemblymember Berman emphasized how the bill is designed to remove the barriers inhibiting academic success and degree attainment for student parents in our community colleges, CSUs, and UCs. In addition to bringing greater attention to their needs, the law grants priority registration for student parents and requires campuses to establish a student-parent webpage. It also necessitates that campuses provide more information to student parents about the California Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

Due to its importance, Michelson 20MM hosted two webinars to highlight the impacts of this bill post-implementation. The webinars discussed key takeaways and lessons learned from practitioners and student parents who have benefited from it. 

Passage of a New Law 

AB 2458 Sacramento Day
Learning about student parent supports during the Student Basic Needs Sacramento Day

This year marked another pivotal time for student parents in California. On September 29, 2024, Governor Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2458, the Greater Accessibility, Information, Notice, and Support (GAINS) for Student Parents Act. It helps ensure 400,000+ student parents and their children are set on clearer paths to college success and multigenerational prosperity. 

The act was co-authored by Assemblymembers Berman, Arambula, and Boerner, along with Senators Ashby and Limón. Co-sponsored by the Michelson Center for Public Policy, the law is the first of its kind in the nation and a major victory for higher education equity. As a result, student parents will have enhanced financial aid access, institutions will automatically adjust a student parent’s cost of attendance to account for expenses such as childcare, campuses will uniformly collect and report data on student parents, and that data will be included in the Cradle to Career longitudinal data system. 

Launching the Michelson 20MM California Student Parent Pooled Fund 

In a landmark initiative to champion the needs of student parents, the Michelson 20MM Foundation was proud to announce the inaugural cohort of the California Student Parent Pooled Fund. 

The groundbreaking endeavor addresses the unique challenges student parents face, promoting equity and systemic change for this often overlooked demographic. Our inaugural cohort included the following organizations: Early Edge California, Northwestern University, Three Frame Media, and Urban Institute. 

Advancing a Sense of Belonging for Student Parents on Campus

In partnership with The Education Trust—West, we launched the CSU Student Parents Sense of Belonging Survey. The goal of the project is to increase understanding of and transparency around parenting students’ experiences and sense of belonging across the CSU system. 

Later this week, Michelson 20MM, together with The Education Trust—West, will host “The State of Pregnant and Parenting Students in California: Fostering a Sense of Belonging at CSUs.” The event will dive into the report’s key preliminary findings. We hope that the report will help uplift promising practices and supports that foster and sustain a sense of belonging for parenting students. The goal is that institutions across the CSUs incorporate the practices within their own campuses.

Forging Multigenerational Supports for Student Parents and Their Families

Raising Up Panel
Panel discusses “Raising Up”

This fall, we were proud to host the second annual “Forging Equitable Futures for Student Parents: A Statewide Summit.” The two-day event began at Regal LA Live on September 5th with a keynote address from Assemblymember Marc Berman. As he stated, “helping student parents will have a multiplier effect.” 

The evening featured a screening of “Raising Up,” a five-part docuseries investigating the barriers students face when pursuing higher education. It also showcases the innovative leaders creating generational impact. Day two of the event featured attendees including advocates, practitioners, philanthropists, systems leaders, student parents, and allies from all across the state to learn about evidence-based examples of success stories and build connections to sustain this growing movement. 

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2025, we are committed to driving multigenerational change at the micro level within families. At the same time, we will inspire systems change within California’s higher education ecosystem and policy change at the state level. Michelson 20MM is excited to formally work with and support the CSU Chancellor’s Office to implement a systemwide initiative in support of pregnant and parenting students across all 23 campuses. 

For student parents and their families, we hope to strengthen and create postsecondary and employment and workforce pathways. This will break intergenerational cycles of poverty and forge futures filled with economic opportunity and prosperity. Throughout the process, we’ll source solutions from student parents and the many advocates who have championed the importance of this work.

In closing, thank you to our partners, fellow advocates, and student parents for their unwavering support in driving these vital initiatives forward. Together, we are shaping a more equitable future for student parents and their families. We look forward to continuing this work with you into 2025. If you would like to get involved, please contact Dr. Queena Hoang, Student Basic Needs Senior Program Manager.

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.

To sign up for our newsletter, click here. 

Democratizing Intellectual Property Education: A Year of Impact

By Chinwe Ohanele Agwu

As 2024 draws to a close, the Michelson Intellectual Property Institute (MIPI) celebrates a year full of achievements, milestones, and transformative initiatives. This year, we deepened our mission to democratize intellectual property (IP) education. The commitment was demonstrated by helping more communities access the knowledge and tools needed to innovate and thrive. From shining a spotlight on young inventors making their mark in California to expanding our impact across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), 2024 has been extraordinary.

IP as Global Engagement

Bringing the World Together: Recap of the Global IP Conference at George State
MIPI is joined by USIPA Chair, Scott Frank at the Global IP Conference.

The year began on a high note as MIPI participated in the Global IP Conference at Georgia State University. This event gathered thought leaders, educators, and policymakers from around the world to discuss the transformative power of intellectual property. The conference highlighted key themes—education, IP ecosystem collaboration, and diversity—that align with MIPI’s core values.

MIPI participated in a panel exploring regional approaches to IP education. Panelists shared that in South America, IP education is largely policy-driven. We discussed ways non-profit organizations leverage global partnerships to teach IP within the context of entrepreneurship. The panel also explored MIPI’s modular institutional approach. Every participant recognized that IP education ultimately benefits learners around the world.

The global context continued beyond our panel. Experts addressed the intersection of artificial intelligence and IP. They also explored how Japan’s focus on bridging the gender gap in IP impacts the economy. Finally, others dove into Ecuador’s initiatives embracing linguistic and ethnic diversity. These discussions reinforced the need for inclusive strategies to empower underrepresented communities worldwide.

Championing Innovation in K-12 Education

Senator Josh Newman is joined by students who are excited to see the resolution pass.

Passed in August, Senate Resolution 106 (SR106) marked a significant victory for IP awareness, designating October as California’s inaugural IP Awareness Month. The passage of the resolution resulted directly from advocacy and collaboration among students, educators, and policymakers. We stood proudly alongside students from Mira Loma High School, Le Grand Elementary, and Calistoga Unified Junior-Senior High School as they gathered at the State Capitol for the historic moment.

Building on the momentum of SR106, MIPI kicked off the “Ideas to Invention” webinar series, aimed at highlighting the ingenuity of young inventors. On the first webinar we hosted in partnership with the California Intellectual Property Alliance (CAIPA), students from Mira Loma shared the development of the Coolar, a smart dog collar that alerts owners to hazardous sidewalk temperatures. On the next webinar, Calistoga students showcased their wearable cooling devices designed for firefighters and agricultural workers. These inventions, driven by real-world challenges, demonstrated how IP education can inspire innovative solutions and empower students to protect their ideas.

The series also provided an opportunity for patent attorneys to discuss the process of securing intellectual property rights. By partnering with young inventors, the attorneys demystified the patenting process and emphasized the importance of protecting creativity at every stage.

Expanding the HBCU Ecosystem

The panel discussion took place July 30th in Atlanta as part of the UNCF Unite conference. Left to right: Dr. Muhsinah Morris, Morehouse College; Dr. Erica Johnson, Morehouse School of Medicine; Dr. Barney Graham, Morehouse School of Medicine; and moderator MIIP Sr. Program Manager Chinwe Ohanele Agwu.
The panel discussion took place July 30th in Atlanta as part of the UNCF Unite conference.

MIPI’s work with HBCUs reached new heights in 2024. At the UNCF UNITE Conference, MIPI partnered with the Michelson Medical Research Foundation to host a groundbreaking panel exploring the research and innovation ecosystem at HBCUs.

The panel featured:

  • Dr. Barney Graham, Professor of Medicine and Senior Advisor for Global Health Equity at Morehouse School of Medicine
  • Dr. Erica Johnson, Associate Professor of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Immunology, and Co-Director of the Vaccine Trials Unit at Morehouse School of Medicine
  • Dr. Muhsinah Morris, Virtual Reality Pioneer, Director of Morehouse in the Metaverse, and Assistant Professor of Education at Morehouse College

These experts explored how HBCUs can leverage research, technology transfer, and innovation. Their conversations focused on overcoming systemic barriers and building a thriving innovation ecosystem with lasting impact. Discussions also emphasized the vital role of tech transfer offices, the current obstacles that limit the potential of researchers at HBCUs, and the importance of fostering a culture of innovation.

The HBCU Futures Collaborative Impact Report
Download The HBCU Futures Collaborative Impact Report

Additionally, MIPI published the HBCU Futures Collaborative Impact Report, which outlined progress in integrating IP education into the HBCU ecosystem. Arguably one of the year’s most significant achievements, the report illustrates  the transformative power of equipping students and faculty with IP knowledge and resources, positioning them to lead in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

The launch of MIPI’s Legal Fellowship Program was another landmark moment in 2024. The inaugural fellowship, designed to address the glaring lack of diversity in IP law, welcomed its first fellow, Elleyse Garrett, a second-year law student at Loyola Law School. Guided by Professor Lateef Mtima of Howard University, Ms. Garrett has already begun critical research to understand the IP offerings and gaps within the HBCU landscape.

Ms. Garrett’s work aims to bridge gaps in the literature about how HBCUs are building their innovation ecosystems. MIPI believes this work will guide other foundations and investors in accelerating research and innovation within the HBCU ecosystem.

Welcoming a New Cohort of HBCU Innovators

Building on the successes of the HBCU IP Futures Collaborative, MIPI welcomed a new cohort of educators dedicated to advancing IP education across their campuses. This cohort represents a diverse range of institutions and disciplines, united by their commitment to empowering the next generation of inventors, researchers, and entrepreneurs.

The educators will integrate IP frameworks into their curricula, foster a culture of innovation, and address the specific needs of their students. Scaling our impact through this cohort, MIPI is ensuring that HBCUs remain at the forefront of innovation and economic empowerment.  Learn more about the HBCU IP Futures Collaborative through our website and join us in welcoming this year’s cohort:

Looking Ahead

 As we reflect on 2024, we feel inspired by our progress and the partnerships forged. This year, we witnessed how intellectual property drives innovation, equity, and opportunity across diverse communities.

From the young inventors shaping our future to the educators transforming HBCUs into hubs of innovation, MIPI’s work is a testament to the transformative potential of IP education. As we step into 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission to democratize intellectual property and build a more inclusive world where creativity and innovation can flourish.

Here’s to a future filled with inspiration, collaboration, and groundbreaking achievements!

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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