Students from the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford participated in the leadership development program.

Submitted

Gabriella Borruso and Kiatyanna Denmark, students in the University of Saint Joseph’s Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice Program, recently finished the Connecticut Sun “Change Can’t Wait” Fellowship, a leadership development program dedicated to advancing social justice, advocacy, and community leadership.

Facilitated by the Tow Youth Justice Institute at the University of New Haven and Our Piece of the Pie, Inc. (OPP), in partnership with the Connecticut Sun WNBA organization, the fellowship empowers emerging leaders through educational programming, mentorship, community engagement, and hands-on learning experiences that prepare participants to become advocates for positive social change.

Throughout the nine-month fellowship, Borruso and Denmark – both members of USJ’s class of 2027 – engaged with community leaders, policymakers, and fellow youth advocates while developing innovative capstone projects addressing important social justice issues affecting Connecticut communities. Their fellowship culminated on June 5,  when they presented their capstone projects at the Connecticut Legislative Office Building before legislators, community stakeholders, and fellowship partners.

“Gabriella and Kiatyanna have demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and a genuine commitment to advancing justice in their communities,” said Dr. John Watts, director of USJ’s Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice Program. “Their work exemplifies the Sisters of Mercy tradition by promoting justice, compassion, service, and respect for the inherent dignity of every person. We are proud to see them transform what they have learned in the classroom into meaningful action that has the potential to create lasting change throughout Connecticut.”

The Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice Program at the University of Saint Joseph emphasizes experiential learning, restorative practices, ethical leadership, and community engagement. Students are encouraged to address complex social issues through collaboration, critical thinking, and service while preparing for careers in criminal justice, public policy, nonprofit leadership, victim advocacy, and community-based organizations.

For more information about USJ’s Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice program, contact Dr. John Watts at [email protected] or 860-231-5249.

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