Breaking Barriers: Join the Policy & Familial Incarceration Panel at UMD

On April 16th, 2026, students, advocates, and community members will gather at the University of Maryland for a powerful and timely conversation on one of the most pressing issues in our society: the intersection of policy, incarceration, and its impact on families.

Hosted by The UnLocked Project, the Policy & Familial Incarceration Panel brings together a dynamic group of leaders, scholars, and lived experience advocates who are working to transform the criminal justice system from the inside out.

📍 Event Details

Date: Thursday, April 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Jimenez Hall, Room 0220 (UMD College Park)
Bonus: Food will be provided

RSVP Here (Required):

Why This Panel Matters

Mass incarceration does not only impact individuals. It reshapes families, communities, and entire generations. From policy reform to personal resilience, this panel will explore the real life consequences of incarceration and the pathways toward equity, healing, and systemic change.

Whether you are a student interested in criminal justice, a future policymaker, or someone passionate about social impact, this conversation offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from those leading and living the change.

Meet the Panelists

Makhia Polk

A rising voice in criminal justice reform, Makhia Polk is a first generation college graduate and current Master of Public Administration student at American University. As a Legislative Fellow with the Maryland General Assembly, she has worked on impactful initiatives like Maryland’s In Custody Death Bill. Her experience spans federal and state policy, and she is driven by a clear mission to dismantle systemic inequities and eventually run for public office to create lasting reform.

Anna Tovchigrechko

As President of The UnLocked Project, Anna leads efforts to support college students with incarcerated parents. Her work is deeply personal because she grew up with a formerly incarcerated parent. A University of Maryland student studying criminology and psychology, Anna focuses on how incarceration affects child development and family systems, bringing both academic insight and lived experience to the conversation.

Michael “Mateen” Williams

Michael Williams’ story is one of transformation and resilience. Sentenced to life plus 40 years at just 17 years old, he spent 32 years incarcerated before being released under Maryland’s Juvenile Restoration Act. Since returning home, he has dedicated himself to helping others heal by earning certifications in recovery coaching and restorative justice. He now works as a Behavioral Health Technician, supporting individuals on their path toward stability.

Ashley McSwain

A leader in reentry and social services, Ashley McSwain is the President of Consultants for Change Inc. and an adjunct professor at Catholic University. With decades of experience in housing, reentry, and community development, she has led organizations supporting formerly incarcerated individuals and underserved populations. A licensed social worker and policy advocate, Ashley brings a systems-level perspective to issues of housing stability, reentry, and social equity.

What You'll Gain

Insight into how incarceration policies affect families and communities
Real stories of transformation, resilience, and advocacy
A deeper understanding of reentry, equity, and systemic reform
Opportunities to engage, ask questions, and be part of the conversation

Be Part of the Change

This panel is not just a discussion. It is a call to action. The future of criminal justice reform depends on informed, engaged communities willing to listen, learn, and lead.

Mark your calendar, bring a friend, and come ready to be inspired.

RSVP now and secure your spot. We hope to see you there.