I’m going back to school, and I’m asking for help.

As you may know, I never finished my bachelor’s degree. I have more than 120 credit hours — just not in a way that adds up to a degree anywhere. That hasn’t stopped me from doing most of the work I’ve wanted to do, but it has mattered.

I’m not planning a career change. But with so much political and economic instability, none of us knows where or when we’ll need to pivot — and unnecessary constraints don’t help. I also want to close this loop and complete this part of my academic journey. 

I’m enrolling in Northeastern Illinois University’s University Without Walls program. It’s a program I know well from my time as a UWW community advisor to imprisoned students.

As part of the program, I’ll complete a major portfolio project. That project will become my next book on activism and social justice.

The total cost to make this possible is about $13,000, covering tuition and program expenses. I am really hoping that some of my friends and folks in my network will be excited enough about my journey as a scholar and my next book to help me make this happen.

I know times are tough and that there are so many good causes to support right now, so if you can't help out, no worries. If you can, thanks so much for believing in me. I’m deeply grateful for the people who have supported my work over the years, and for anyone who chooses to be part of this next step.