“Five years ago I was starving on a park bench after being released from prison. I didn’t know how to navigate in the free world. “

At age 17, Stephen Hensley was jailed for nearly six years. After his release, he worked tirelessly to provide work, housing, and admission to Fresno. Now Hensley is a medalist of the Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities. Grand opening ceremony of the College of Arts and Humanities 12.30 on Friday, May 20thin the center of Save Mart.

A dual major, he received a bachelor’s degree in philosophy (pre-legislative) and political science. Next fall Hensley will be studying at the University of California, Berkeley Law School.

During his first semester in Fresno, Hensley co-founded Youngsters for Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young people who are at risk and previously imprisoned. He is the student coordinator for Bulldogs for Recovery and was recently elected to the ACLU Northern California Board of Directors.

Using his practical and deeply personal understanding of the justice system, Hensley plans to bring a unique empathic perspective to theoretical legal discussions, presenting the experiences of those affected by imprisonment and poverty.

Celebrating the 2022 issue
In the coming days, FresnoStateNews.com will cover the stories of inspiring students who will graduate this spring. Opening ceremonies will be held on May 20 and 21 at eight colleges and universities of the university, as well as several festive events. commencement.fresnostate.edu for more information.