Shad M. Hagan, MS, founder of Bridges Built By Us, leads a nonprofit organization dedicated to removing the criminal history question from college applications, creating equitable access to higher education for justice-impacted individuals.
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Bridges Built By Us: Transforming Higher Education Access for Justice-Impacted Individuals
Oklahoma, USA – Bridges Built By Us, founded by Shad M. Hagan, MS, is breaking down systemic barriers that prevent justice-impacted individuals from pursuing higher education. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is on a mission to remove the criminal history question from college applications, advocating for fairer admissions processes that value potential over past mistakes.
“Higher education is a cornerstone of transformation,” said Shad M. Hagan, MS, founder of Bridges Built By Us. “By eliminating discriminatory barriers, we can provide justice-impacted individuals with the opportunities they need to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The organization’s efforts center on policy change, public awareness, and empowering individuals to overcome the challenges associated with criminal histories.
Redefining Educational Opportunities
For many justice-impacted individuals, the criminal history question on college applications serves as a significant obstacle. This practice often results in unfair scrutiny, discouraging applicants and limiting access to the resources necessary for successful reentry and personal growth.
Bridges Built By Us tackles these challenges head-on with a three-pronged approach:
- Policy Advocacy: Working with policymakers and institutions to remove criminal history questions from college applications, ensuring equitable access to education.
- Public Awareness: Educating the public about the harmful effects of these questions and the benefits of creating inclusive admissions policies.
- Individual Empowerment: Supporting justice-impacted individuals with resources, mentorship, and platforms to share their stories.
Through these initiatives, Bridges Built By Us aims to shift the focus from past mistakes to the potential for future success.
A Vision for Justice and Inclusion
The ultimate vision of Bridges Built By Us is a future where no one is denied access to higher education based on their criminal history. By advocating for change, the organization works to create an admissions process that reflects the principles of equity, inclusion, and opportunity.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools for breaking cycles of incarceration,” Hagan explained. “We’re here to build bridges for justice-impacted individuals, providing them with the support they need to create brighter futures.”
Leadership with Lived Experience
What sets Bridges Built By Us apart is its leadership. Founded and led by individuals with lived experience in the justice system, the nonprofit brings authenticity and understanding to its advocacy efforts. This firsthand perspective ensures the organization’s initiatives are deeply informed and impactful.
“Our experiences give us unique insight into the barriers that justice-impacted individuals face,” Hagan said. “This isn’t just a professional mission—it’s personal. We understand the challenges, and we’re committed to creating solutions that work.”
Join the Movement for Education Equity
Bridges Built By Us invites individuals, organizations, and policymakers to join their mission of creating fairer pathways to higher education. Supporters can contribute by:
- Partnering on advocacy campaigns to eliminate criminal history questions from college applications.
- Supporting educational programs that raise awareness about the impact of these policies.
- Providing mentorship and resources for justice-impacted individuals seeking educational opportunities.
Through collective action, the organization believes it can build a system that uplifts individuals and communities alike.
About Bridges Built By Us
Bridges Built By Us is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to removing barriers to higher education for justice-impacted individuals. Founded by Shad M. Hagan, MS, the organization leads policy advocacy, raises public awareness, and empowers individuals to transform their lives through education. With a focus on equity and inclusion, Bridges Built By Us strives to create a world where everyone has access to the transformative power of higher education.
To learn more or get involved, visit https://bridgesbuiltbyus.org/.
Media Contact
Name: Shad M. Hagan, MS
Title: Founder
Email: shad@bridgesbuiltbyus.org
Website: https://bridgesbuiltbyus.org/
Contact Info:
Name: Shad M. Hagan, MS
Email: Send Email
Organization: Bridges Built By Us
Website: https://bridgesbuiltbyus.org/
Release ID: 89146950
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