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Explore the preliminary conference schedule
9:00–11:00 am → Special Session Block 1 (2 hours)
11:00–2:00 pm → Long Midday Break (lunch on your own)
2:00–4:00 pm → Special Session Block 2 (2 hours)
4:00–5:00 pm → Closing Session (networking, panel, or special event)
7:00–9:00 am → Registration & Breakfast (food provided)
9:00–10:30 am → Opening Plenary (90 min)
10:30–11:00 am → Break
11:00–12:00 pm → Session 1
12:00–1:30 pm → Lunch (food provided, 90 min)
1:30–2:00 pm → Break
2:00–3:00 pm → Session 2
3:00–3:30 pm → Break
3:30–4:30 pm → Session 3
7:00–9:00 am → Breakfast (food provided)
9:00–10:00 am → Session 4
10:00–10:30 am → Break
10:30–11:30 am → Session 5
11:30–1:00 pm → Lunch (food provided, 90 min)
1:00–1:30 pm → Break
1:30–2:30 pm → Session 6
2:30–3:00 pm → Break
3:00–4:00 pm → Session 7
4:00–5:00 pm → Closing Activity
People who have experienced the justice system firsthand bring invaluable knowledge—whether from representing themselves, helping others as jailhouse lawyers, or navigating complex legal processes.
Many have earned paralegal or law degrees and have built meaningful careers in the legal field. Yet, too few legal training and career opportunities exist, and too many barriers stand in the way of system-impacted individuals who aspire to make a difference.
Together, we can change this.
Ascendium is bringing together people actively engaged in expanding legal training and legal career pathways for system-impacted individuals on April 8, 2026, in conjunction with NCHEP 2026.
The convening is intended for people with a direct connection to the topic including those who:
Please complete our interest form by December 12, 2025 if you want to attend or get more information, and please send any questions to legal@ascendiumeducation.org.
The Cornell Prison Education Program is pleased to announce a one-day Research Symposium on Higher Education in Prison (HEP), to be held on April 8, 2026 in conjunction with NCHEP 15 in Cleveland, OH.
This symposium will bring together researchers, practitioners, and programs engaged in advancing HEP research, developing data collection strategies, and implementing research-informed practices. The event will feature both established scholars and emerging researchers who are piloting innovative HEP studies.
Space is limited. If you would like to request more information, please email cpep@cornell.edu. To express interest in participating, please complete this form by December 31st.
