This fall, the UnLocked Project is excited to host another thought-provoking panel discussion, this time centered on reentry and its impact on families and children of incarcerated parents. The event will take place on October 27, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in the Thurgood Marshall Room at Stamp Student Union.

In collaboration with Reentry Redefined, a student organization at the University of Maryland dedicated to reducing recidivism rates, this panel aims to shed light on the personal and systemic challenges surrounding reentry. Together, we hope to explore how communities can better support individuals and families during and after incarceration.

Our panel features a lineup of inspiring and passionate speakers who bring a wealth of knowledge, research, and lived experience:

• Dr. Kevin Roy – A professor at the University of Maryland who works closely with low-income families and community-based parenting programs. Dr. Roy’s research explores fatherhood, adulthood, and the effects of incarceration on men and families.

• Dr. John Hart – Holding a Ph.D. in Family Science from UMD, Dr. Hart collaborates with prisons and jails to improve incarceration systems and address root causes. He also provides trauma-informed counseling to families and at-risk youth, and has contributed research on reentry for young Black fathers through the Vera Institute.

• Waunita Scott – A reentry housing service provider in Baltimore who offers crucial support to individuals after release. Having grown up with a justice-involved parent, Ms. Scott brings invaluable personal insights to the conversation.

• Dr. Carmelle Norice – A justice reform advocate, physician-scientist, and lead volunteer for Love Justice, a prison and reentry mission of National Community Church in D.C. As someone personally impacted by incarceration, Dr. Norice embodies resilience and advocates for the success of children with incarcerated parents.

This panel will offer space for meaningful dialogue, learning, and community engagement. Attendees will gain insight into the realities of reentry, the ripple effects of incarceration on families, and the ongoing efforts to build pathways of healing and opportunity.

Free Chick-fil-A will be provided.

Seats are limited, so we encourage everyone to RSVP soon to secure a spot.