SOARS at UofL

Empowering system-impacted scholars at UofL through education, peer support, and reentry success pathways.

Student Opportunities for Academic and Reentry Success (SOARS) at the University of Louisville is a student-led organization that supports individuals impacted by the criminal legal system in pursuing and succeeding in higher education. Founded on principles of equity, inclusion, and transformative justice, SOARS provides a supportive community for system-impacted students navigating the challenges of college life during and after incarceration or supervision. SOARS creates a welcoming environment that fosters belonging, academic achievement, and personal growth. Through peer mentorship, student leadership opportunities, and culturally responsive programming, SOARS members build strong support networks that affirm lived experience while promoting educational and career advancement. The organization also connects members to university resources, faculty allies, and reentry support services, ensuring continuity of care and academic progress. Central to SOARS is the belief that education is a key pillar of reentry and long-term stability. The organization advocates for policies that reduce barriers to enrollment and degree completion for formerly incarcerated students, such as Ban the Box initiatives and access to campus-based support systems. SOARS collaborates with local organizations, faculty researchers, and national networks to amplify the voices of system-impacted scholars and contribute to broader movements for educational justice. Whether through hosting public events, supporting research opportunities, or helping students reengage with learning after incarceration, SOARS serves as a catalyst for change. By building leadership capacity and fostering collective action, the organization empowers students to reimagine their futures and contribute meaningfully to the university and their communities.

07/21/2026

Scholarship applications are now open for the 20th Annual Meeting of the Academic Consortium on Criminal Justice Health, taking place March 1- 3, 2027, in Louisville, Kentucky.

The scholarship program is designed to increase access to the conference by supporting individuals who may not otherwise be able to attend. They encourage applications from students, early career professionals, community practitioners, researchers, clinicians, advocates, and others whose participation will strengthen the conference community.

Scholarships include:

Conference registration
Hotel accommodations
A travel stipend
Applications must be submitted by September 14, 2026, 11:59pm EST.

To review eligibility requirements and submit an application, please visit:

The ACCJH 20th Annual Meeting, taking place March 1-3, 2027, at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, is the premier interdisciplinary conference advancing health and equity across the criminal legal system.

05/13/2026

Thanks all of our members who could join us for our May Meeting! We are working hard to plan a fall event and are still looking for ideas! Feel free to send them over!

01/07/2026

Spring 2026 Course Opportunity (3 credits): Outside the Bar Lines: Where Music Meets Service (MUS 591)

This community-engaged course, co-taught by faculty members Andrew Chapman and [Instructor], partners University of Louisville students with women at the Kentucky Correctional Institute for Women (KCIW) for collaborative music-making and guided reflection on human connection, empathy, and social awareness. Although the course carries a music prefix, it is open to students from all majors, and students from psychology, sociology, justice studies, education, public health, social work, and related fields are especially encouraged to enroll.

No formal music training is required; students should simply be comfortable singing in group or solo settings. Transportation to KCIW will not be provided by the university, and students will be encouraged to carpool.

Class meetings:
• Tuesdays (time TBD) at KCIW
• Fridays, 1:00–1:50 PM, on campus at the School of Music

Depending on degree program requirements, the course may count toward upper-level electives or experiential learning credits; students should consult their academic advisor for confirmation.

06/14/2025

Today kicks off Day 1 of the SOARS summer research collaborative! 6 system impacted, pre-college or community college scholars who are hopeful of becoming future Cards will learn and engage in research methods training - culminating in a poster to present during NCHEP!

05/10/2025

Formerly incarcerated students who earn a college degree are not only far less likely to return to prison, but also more likely to gain stable employment, support their families, and become community leaders (Vera Institute of Justice, 2021).

At UofL SOARS, we celebrate the resilience of students who have overcome incarceration and are now thriving in higher education. Degrees open doors that criminal records tried to close and we’re here to make sure those doors stay open.

Student success after incarceration isn’t just possible—it’s powerful.

04/25/2025

Wednesday’s Reentry Simulation was an incredibly impactful experience, and we are grateful to have hosted it in collaboration with the Kentucky Department of Corrections Division of Reentry Serviceses and the amazing staff and clients of CTS Russell.

Through this simulation, University of Louisville students, faculty, staff, and administrators stepped into the shoes of individuals navigating life after incarceration—facing housing barriers, employment challenges, and systemic hurdles. It was an eye-opening reminder of why our work matters.

At SOARS, we are building a community rooted in restorative education and support for system-impacted scholars. If you believe in the power of second chances, equity in education, and real pathways to reentry success—we invite you to become a member of SOARS.

Whether you’re a student, faculty member, or ally, there’s space for you in this movement. Let’s rise together.

Join us today.

https://louisville.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/soars

04/24/2025

We’re thrilled to officially welcome you to Student Opportunities for Academic and Reentry Success (SOARS) at the University of Louisville.

SOARS is a student-led community dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by the criminal legal system as they pursue higher education and build thriving futures. Whether you’re just starting your college journey or returning after incarceration or supervision, you belong here, and we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.

What we offer:
• Peer mentorship and support
• Pathways to academic and career success
• Referrals to campus and community resources
• Advocacy for system-impacted students
• A safe space to be seen, heard, and supported

Education is a powerful tool for reentry, healing, and leadership, and at SOARS, we believe in the power of second chances and bold new beginnings.

Stay tuned for upcoming events, meetings, and opportunities to get involved. If you’re ready to learn more or want to connect, message us or email us anytime. Let’s rise together.

Send a message to learn more

Address

2217 S 3rd Street
Louisville, KY
40292

Website

https://louisville.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/soars

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